What is a key principle of the 5th Amendment?

The key principle of the 5th Amendment is the protection against self-incrimination. This provision ensures that individuals cannot be compelled to testify against themselves in a criminal case, thereby upholding the principle of due process. It is designed to protect the rights of the accused, ensuring that they are not forced to provide evidence or testimony that could lead to their own conviction. This protection is a fundamental aspect of the legal system, emphasizing the importance of individual rights and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

While rights of the accused, at a broader level, encompass various protections provided under the Bill of Rights, the specific language of the 5th Amendment distinctly addresses self-incrimination. The other options, such as freedom from unreasonable searches and rights to keep and bear arms, relate to different amendments and principles within the Constitution.