Bill of Rights Scenarios – Flashcards

Bob write a letter to the editor complaining about the way the government is treating convicts in federal prisons. Because of this letter, Bob is arrested and placed in jail himself. Does this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Brendan is accused of armed robbery and given a trial. The jury finds Brendan innocent. The next day the prosecutor decides that the verdict was not correct, and he orders Brendan arrested and tried for the crime again. Does this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Calvin is accused of writing several bad checks. When he appears before the judge, Calvin asks for help preparing his defense because he is too poor to afford a lawyer. The judge tell Calvin that he is sorry he is poor, but Calvin will just have to prepare his own case, without any help. Did this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

The city of Central had two newspapers. The Central News often printed articles in favor of the local mayor. The Central Register, however, was very critical of him. When the Register wrote that the mayor might not have the best interests of the city in mind, the mayor ordered the paper closed, and it went out of business. Does this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

A customer says that Betty cheated her out of $2,000 at Betty's store. The customer then sues Betty. Because Betty believes the evidence will prove her innocent, she ask the judge for a jury trial. The judge says it would be a waste of time, and that he will settle the matter himself. Does this violate her rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

The government lacked money to support the nation's military forces. To save money, General Pulp ordered that troops be placed in the homes of people living close to military bases. Anne lived next to an army base, and two soldiers moved into her house, even though she did not want them there. Does this violate her rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Juanita lives near a factory that puts foul-smelling smoke in the air. Juanita and her neighbors call a meeting at Juanita's house to discuss what they can do about the smoke. However, the police block the entrance to the home and tell people that they have no right to hold a meeting. Does this violate her rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Marvin's boss dislikes the ideas of the Church of Every Day Salvation. Marvin tells a coworker that he belongs to the church, and soon after, Marvin's boss fires him because he belongs to the church. Does this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Mike is in his house watching television when two policemen knock at the door. They accuse Mike of having stolen property, enter the house, and take several things that hey say do not belong to Mike. When he asks if the policemen have permission to take his things, they just laugh and leave with the property. Does this violate his rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

When Mary was arrested for shoplifting, she asked the judge to set bail so that she could be free while awaiting trial. The judge agreed, and set bail a one million dollars. Because Mary could not afford the amount, she remained in jail. Does this violate her rights, if so which amendment protects this right?

Amendment 2

Amendment 4