In law, the rights and privileges of a person accused of a crime.
In most modern legal systems these include the presumption of innocence until proved guilty, trial by jury , representation by counsel, the right to present witnesses and evidence to establish one's innocence, and the right to cross-examine one's accusers. Also important are a prohibition against an unreasonable search and seizure , the right to a speedy trial, and guarantees of freedom from double jeopardy and of the right to appeal . In the U.S. a person accused of a crime must be notified immediately of the right to secure counsel and the right to refuse to answer questions if answering might be incriminating (see Miranda v. Arizona ).