Amendments

Amendment V

Constitution of the United States

Official text

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 offence 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.

Proposed by Congress September 25, 1789. Ratified December 15, 1791.

Source: National Archives (archives.gov) transcription

In plain English

This amendment protects people accused of crimes and property owners:

  • Serious federal crimes require a grand jury indictment (except in the military).
  • No one may be tried twice for the same offense ("double jeopardy").
  • No one can be forced to testify against himself in a criminal case.
  • No one may lose life, liberty or property without due process of law.
  • The government may take private property for public use only if it pays just compensation.

Plain-English summary drafted by Christian Vote USA; editor review pending. Always read the official text above.

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