AMENDMENT 5

Source: Aide to Gonzales Won’t Testify, March 27, 2007
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/03/26/AR2007032600935.html

Constitutional Connection: Amendment 5 - Trial and Punishment, Compensation for Takings
“No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.”

Explanation of Connection:

Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales's senior counselor, Monica Goodling refuses to testify about her involvement in the firing of eight US attorneys. She does not want to testify because she believes that the Senate has drawn conclusions. They already believe that Goodling has done something wrong. She does not want to incriminate herself by testifying.

This article demonstrates Amendment 5 of the United States Constitution. Goodling is pleading the Fifth Amendment to remain silent on the issue. She has the right to not incriminate herself in the court of law.

I think that this is a great amendment to the Constitution. If a person knows they are guilty, they don’t have to tell the court that. Instead of lying, they don’t have to say anything at all. They can just let the courts prove that they are innocent or guilty. Sometimes we just need the right to be silent.