Which amendment protects against self-incrimination?

The 5th Amendment is crucial in protecting individuals against self-incrimination, which means that a person cannot be compelled to provide testimony or evidence that could be used against them in a criminal case. This protection stems from the principle that individuals should not be forced to take the stand against themselves, a safeguard designed to ensure fair treatment in the legal system.

The language of the 5th Amendment clearly states that no person "shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself." This has been instrumental in shaping the rights of the accused in the U.S. judicial system, ensuring that any confession or self-incriminating statement is given voluntarily and with an understanding of the legal consequences.

The other amendments do address various legal rights, such as freedom of speech and the right to a fair trial, but they do not specifically provide the same level of protection against self-incrimination as the 5th Amendment does.