The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that a person accused of a crime has the right to a speedy and public trial, 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 Rhode Island, as in all states, the Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury. This means that in Rhode Island, anyone charged with a crime has the right to have their case heard without undue delay and in an open forum, ensuring transparency and fairness. The jury must be composed of individuals from the state and specific district where the crime occurred, as defined by law. Defendants must be clearly informed of the charges against them, be able to face and question the witnesses who testify against them, and have the ability to secure witnesses in their defense. Additionally, they have the right to the assistance of an attorney to help navigate the legal process and advocate on their behalf. If a defendant cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided at no cost. Rhode Island state statutes and court rules provide further details on the implementation of these rights, ensuring that the state's legal proceedings align with the constitutional standards set forth by the Sixth Amendment.