Which documents protect civil liberties in criminal cases?

The U.S. Constitution and state laws are fundamental documents that protect civil liberties in criminal cases. The Constitution includes critical amendments, such as the Fourth Amendment, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures; the Fifth Amendment, which provides the right against self-incrimination and ensures due process; and the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to a fair trial, among others. These constitutional protections create a framework that governs the legal processes related to criminal justice and ensures that individuals' rights are upheld.

State laws often complement these constitutional protections by providing additional rights or outlining specific procedures that must be followed in criminal cases. State constitutions can also include provisions aimed at safeguarding civil liberties, ensuring that state-level legislation aligns with federal protections.

Other options, such as state regulations and municipal codes, international treaties and agreements, or local ordinances and statutes, do not have the same comprehensive and foundational role in the protection of civil liberties within the context of criminal justice. They may address specific issues or local matters, but they lack the direct constitutional authority and widespread applicability found in the U.S. Constitution and state laws.