privilege against self-incrimination

The privilege against self-incrimination is a legal protection that allows individuals to refuse to answer questions or provide information that could potentially incriminate them in a crime. This principle is rooted in the idea that no one should be forced to contribute to their own prosecution. It is commonly associated with the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which ensures that individuals can remain silent during legal proceedings to avoid self-incrimination. This privilege is essential for preserving fair trial rights and encourages defendants to speak freely without the fear of implicating themselves.