The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that a person accused of a crime has the right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation, and states that:

“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.”

In Maryland, as in all states, the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution is fully applicable and provides critical protections for individuals accused of crimes. This includes the right to be promptly informed of the charges against them, ensuring that defendants understand the nature and cause of the accusations they face. Maryland courts are required to uphold a defendant's right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury, selected from the state and specific district where the alleged crime occurred. The district must be established by law prior to the offense. Additionally, the accused has the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses against them, to subpoena witnesses in their defense, and to have the assistance of an attorney. If a defendant cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed by the court at no cost to the defendant, as per the state's Public Defender system. These rights are designed to ensure fairness and due process in the criminal justice system.