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A brief summary of the first 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution, collectively known as the Bill of Rights

• 1st

  • 1st Amendment

    Congress may not establish a religion, restrict free speech or press freedom, or deprive citizens of rights to assemble peacefully or petition the government.

• 2nd

  • 2nd Amendment

    The government may not infringe on the rights of the people to keep and bear arms.

• 3rd

  • 3rd Amendment

    Soldiers may not be quartered in any house without the consent of the owner.

• 4th

  • 4th Amendment

    Neither individuals nor their homes and property may be searched or seized unless a legal warrant, based on probable cause, is issued.

• 5th

  • 5th Amendment

    An individual charged with a crime is entitled to due legal process, cannot be tried twice for the same offense, and cannot be compelled to testify against him- or herself. The government cannot seize private property without just compensation.

• 6th

  • 6th Amendment

    An individual accused of a crime has the right a speedy trial by an impartial jury, to be informed of the charges, to confront witnesses, and be assisted by legal counsel.

• 7th

  • 7th Amendment

    In civil litigation, parties are entitled to a jury trial, and no fact established by a jury be re-examined in any higher court.

• 8th

  • 8th Amendment

    The government may not impose excessive bail, excessive fines imposed, or cruel and unusual punishments.

• 9th

  • 9th Amendment

    The listing of specific rights in the Constitution does not deny or disparage other rights retained by the people.

• 10th

  • 10th Amendment

    Powers not delegated to the U.S. federal government by the Constitution are reserved to state governments and to the people.