Illinois Constitution ARTICLE I - BILL OF RIGHTS
Illinois Constitution – Article I: Bill of Rights
Article I of the Illinois Constitution outlines the fundamental rights and liberties guaranteed to all individuals within the state. It functions similarly to the U.S. Bill of Rights but includes some broader protections.
Key Sections and Provisions:
Inherent and Inalienable Rights (Section 1)
All people are by nature free and independent.
They have certain inalienable rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Due Process and Equal Protection (Section 2)
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
All persons are guaranteed equal protection under the laws.
Religious Freedom (Section 3)
Guarantees freedom of religion.
No person shall be denied any civil or political right because of their religious opinions.
Freedom of Speech (Section 4)
Protects the right to speak freely, write, and publish on all subjects.
Right to Assemble and Petition (Section 5)
People have the right to assemble in a peaceable manner and petition the government.
Searches, Seizures, Privacy (Section 6)
Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Includes protections for personal privacy.
Indictment and Preliminary Hearing (Section 7)
Guarantees due process through indictment or a prompt hearing.
Rights after Indictment (Section 8)
Ensures the right to a fair trial, including a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury.
Bail and Habeas Corpus (Section 9)
Protects the right to bail and habeas corpus, except in certain capital cases.
Self-Incrimination and Double Jeopardy (Section 10)
Protects against being forced to incriminate oneself or being tried twice for the same offense.
Limitation of Penalties (Section 11)
Punishments should aim at reform and not be cruel or unusual.
Right to Remedy and Justice (Section 12)
Every person shall obtain justice promptly and without denial.
Trial by Jury (Section 13)
Preserves the right to trial by jury in civil and criminal cases.
Imprisonment for Debt (Section 14)
Prohibits imprisonment for debt, except in cases of fraud.
Right of Eminent Domain (Section 15)
Private property shall not be taken or damaged for public use without just compensation.
Ex Post Facto Laws and Contracts (Section 16)
Prohibits ex post facto laws and laws impairing contracts.
No Discrimination in Employment and Housing (Section 17)
Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, creed, national ancestry, and sex.
No Discrimination Based on Sex (Section 18)
Explicitly guarantees gender equality under the law.
No Discrimination Against the Handicapped (Section 19)
Ensures full and equal rights to individuals with disabilities.
Individual Dignity (Section 20)
Public policy to respect and protect the dignity of every person.
Right to Arms (Section 22)
Subject to police power, individuals have the right to keep and bear arms.
Fundamental Principles (Section 23)
Reminds that a frequent recurrence to fundamental principles is essential to secure liberty.
Rights Retained (Section 24)
The enumeration of rights in this Article does not negate others retained by the people.
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