Which right is protected by the Fifth Amendment?

• A. The right to counsel
• B. The right to a speedy trial
• C. Protection against self-incrimination
• D. The right to confront witnesses

Answer: (C)

Protection against being forced to testify against yourself is protected by the Fifth Amendment. This means you can refuse to answer questions if answering them could expose you to criminal liability, and anything you do say cannot be used against you to convict you. That’s why the familiar idea of “pleading the Fifth” exists. In practice, this protection comes up during custodial interrogation and in court, helping ensure the government proves guilt without pressuring you to incriminate yourself. The other rights listed—to counsel, to a speedy trial, and to confront witnesses—come from the Sixth Amendment and concern how a trial is conducted, not whether you must testify.