Utah Constitution Article 01 Declaration of Rights
Utah Constitution – Article I: Declaration of Rights
This article outlines the fundamental rights and liberties guaranteed to all individuals in the state of Utah. It closely mirrors the U.S. Bill of Rights but also includes some provisions specific to Utah's state values and history.
Here’s a summary of key sections:
Article I – Declaration of Rights (Summary)
Inherent and Inalienable Rights – All men have equal rights to life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness.
Religious Liberty – Guarantees the free exercise of religion; prohibits any state religion.
Freedom of Speech and the Press – Ensures freedom of speech and of the press.
Unreasonable Searches and Seizures – Protects against unlawful searches and requires warrants to be issued based on probable cause.
Rights of the Accused – Includes protections such as due process, speedy and public trial, right to counsel, and protection against double jeopardy.
Habeas Corpus – The right to challenge unlawful imprisonment.
Trial by Jury – Preserves the right to a trial by jury in both criminal and civil cases.
Bail and Punishments – Prohibits excessive bail, fines, and cruel and unusual punishment.
Treason – Defines treason and outlines its punishment.
Rights Retained by the People – States that the enumeration of rights does not deny others retained by the people.
No Discrimination – Affirms equal protection and prohibits denial of rights based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, or political beliefs.
Additional Notable Provisions
Section 27: Fundamental Rights – Emphasizes that the state recognizes and secures these rights as part of its essential purpose.
Right to Bear Arms (Section 6) – Affirms the individual right to keep and bear arms for security and defense.
Marriage (Section 29) – Initially restricted marriage to a man and a woman, but this was invalidated by federal courts.
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