Final answer:
The Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Amendments provide critical protections for individuals in the American criminal justice system, including rights to legal representation, jury trials, protection from double jeopardy, unreasonable searches, and cruel and unusual punishment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh Amendments of the U.S. Constitution confer critical procedural protections for individuals within the American criminal justice system, while the Eighth Amendment assures humane treatment and just penalties.
- The Fifth Amendment provides the right to a grand jury, protection against double jeopardy, prohibits self-incrimination, and mandates due process of law. Sara has the right to an attorney, irrespective of whether the crime is a felony or not, by virtue of the Sixth Amendment which guarantees the right to counsel. In this case, the amendment directly addresses access to legal representation.
- The Seventh Amendment ensures the right to a jury trial in civil disputes where the value in controversy exceeds twenty dollars. Since Mr. Jones's case involves an $850 claim, he is entitled to a jury trial even if the judge considers the sum small.
- The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive fines and cruel and unusual punishments. Therefore, the judge cannot impose the brutal punishment of cutting off Carolyn's hands for a minor offense like shoplifting a candy bar as it violates the Eighth Amendment.
- In the case of Mr. Reynolds, the Fourth Amendment protects citizens against unreasonable searches and seizures without a warrant or probable cause. Hence, ATF agents cannot confiscate his rifles or search his house without evidence of criminal activity or a search warrant, implying that the search and seizure would be unconstitutional.
The U.S. Constitution's Bill of Rights provides citizens with numerous liberties and protections, especially within the framework of the justice system to ensure fair treatment for all.