The Crucial Role of Due Process in "12 Angry Men" Free Essay Example

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Role of The Fifth Amendment

The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution plays a significant role in ensuring a fair trial for all individuals. One of the key provisions of the Fifth Amendment is the requirement for a unanimous vote by all 12 jurors in a jury trial to determine the defendant's innocence or guilt. In "12 Angry Men," we witness how one juror stands alone in his belief in the boy's innocence, while the rest of the jurors are convinced of his guilt.

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Through his persistence and dedication, this juror gradually persuades his fellow jurors to reexamine the evidence and consider the possibility of the boy's innocence.

Additionally, the Fifth Amendment guarantees individuals the right to not be compelled to be a witness against themselves. In the film, witnesses are called to testify against the defendant, including a lady who claims to have witnessed the crime through a window and a passing train, and an old man who alleges to have heard the boy threaten his father.

However, both witnesses' testimonies are called into question due to inconsistencies and doubts about their credibility. For example, the lady's claim is undermined by the fact that she would have had to wear her glasses to bed to see clearly, while the old man's account is challenged by the noise of the passing train.

Role of The Sixth Amendment in Public Trial

The Sixth Amendment guarantees individuals the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. A speedy trial ensures that justice is served promptly and that the defendant's rights are protected.

In "12 Angry Men," the jury deliberates over the case for several hours, emphasizing the importance of thorough examination and consideration of the evidence before reaching a verdict. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty, highlighting the principle of innocence until proven otherwise.

Moreover, an impartial jury is essential in ensuring a fair trial for the defendant. The jurors in the film are strangers to the boy, ensuring that their judgment is not clouded by personal biases or preconceived notions. One juror's background from a similar slum as the defendant allows him to empathize with the boy's circumstances, leading to a more nuanced discussion of the case. Another juror's experience with knife fights provides valuable insight into the physical dynamics of the crime, challenging the prosecution's narrative.

In conclusion, "12 Angry Men" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of due process and the protections afforded by the first ten amendments of the Bill of Rights. The film showcases how the Fifth and Sixth Amendments ensure a fair trial for individuals accused of crimes, highlighting the significance of a unanimous jury verdict, the right to remain silent, a speedy trial, and an impartial jury. Without these fundamental rights, the risk of injustice and unfair treatment in the legal system would be significantly higher, underscoring the need for the preservation of due process in society.

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