What is meant by 'due process' in the context of criminal law?

Due process in the context of criminal law refers to the legal requirement that the state must respect all of a person's legal rights when it enforces the law. This concept primarily stems from the 14th Amendment in the United States Constitution and is designed to ensure that legal proceedings are conducted fairly and that individuals receive the opportunity to defend themselves.

When due process is upheld, it guarantees several fundamental rights, including the right to be heard, the right to a fair trial, and the right to legal representation. These principles are integral to the justice system and help prevent arbitrary justice, ensuring that every accused person receives a fair shake in court.

While there are other important aspects of criminal procedure, such as the conduct of the police, the method for processing charges, and the timeliness of trials, these aspects fall under the broader umbrella of due process. Thus, the essence of due process is encapsulated in the guarantee that legal proceedings will be fair, making it a cornerstone of justice in criminal law.