Final answer:
Under the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment, the defendant has the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses against them in a courtroom setting, and hearsay evidence is generally inadmissible unless under specific exceptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Under the Confrontation Clause, which is outlined in the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, a defendant in a criminal case has several crucial rights. These include the right to be present in court to confront and cross-examine witnesses against them, which is an essential part of the right to a fair trial. This ensures that all testimony is presented directly in the courtroom where the defendant can challenge its veracity through a lawyer. Additionally, hearsay evidence is generally not permissible, except under certain circumstances such as if it is an admission of guilt by the defendant or a 'dying declaration' from someone who has now passed away. The right to face one's accusers allows the defendant to question the evidence and testimony being presented, offering a chance for a defense that can scrutinize the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution's case.