Bill Of Rights Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Bill Of Rights, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Bill Of Rights?

(n) Bill of Rights are the constitutional amendments made to US constitution that deal and legitimate the issue connected to the human rights including issues such as freedom of religion, speech, press, right to peaceably assemble and petition the government etc. The right of the people to keep and bear Arms, prohibiting unreasonable searches and seizures or issuing warrants, regulations on death penalty , prohibiting trial more than once for the same offense, compensation for property acquisition , impartial local jury, information about accusation, etc are the important rights included in this bill.

History and Meaning of Bill Of Rights

The Bill of Rights is an essential part of the US Constitution. It consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution, which were ratified in 1791. The Bill of Rights was necessary for the Constitution's ratification because many individuals and states believed that the Constitution did not identify and protect individual freedoms adequately. It guarantees personal liberties, limits the power of the government, and outlines specific rights granted to the people.

The Bill of Rights is at the core of American political and legal tradition. It is an expression of fundamental values shared by the American people, and it has played a massive role in the development of the United States as a free and democratic society.

Examples of Bill Of Rights

  1. The First Amendment to the US Constitution is part of the Bill of Rights, which guarantees freedom of religion, speech, press, and assembly.
  2. The Fourth Amendment protects against unlawful searches and seizures, which prevent the government from invading people's privacy without a warrant.
  3. The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail or fines, and "cruel and unusual" punishment.

Legal Terms Similar to Bill Of Rights

  1. Constitutional Rights - Rights granted to individuals by the United States Constitution.
  2. Civil Rights - The fundamental rights of American citizens that are guaranteed by federal, state, and local government.
  3. Human Rights - Rights that belong to every individual, regardless of nationality, gender, race, or religion, and enshrined in international law.