Procedural Protections

Definition

Procedural protections are the legal safeguards that prevent the government from arbitrarily depriving individuals of their basic constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property.

Analogy

Think of procedural protections as a referee in a football game. Just like how the referee ensures that all players follow the rules and play fairly, procedural protections ensure that the government follows due process when dealing with citizens' rights.

Related terms

Due Process Clause: This is a clause in the Constitution (in both 5th and 14th Amendments) that restricts federal and state governments from depriving any person of 'life, liberty or property' without due process of law.

Habeas Corpus: A legal action or writ by means of which detainees can seek relief from unlawful imprisonment.

Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the US Constitution, outlining specific prohibitions on governmental power to protect individual liberties.