Maine Constitution Article I.DECLARATION OF RIGHTS
Maine Constitution – Article I: Declaration of Rights
Article I of the Maine Constitution, titled "Declaration of Rights," establishes the fundamental liberties and protections afforded to all people under Maine law. This article is modeled after the U.S. Bill of Rights and reflects the state's commitment to individual freedoms, justice, and civil governance.
Key Sections of Article I – Declaration of Rights:
Section 1 – All people are born free and equal
Affirms that all individuals have natural, inherent, and unalienable rights, including the enjoyment and defense of life and liberty, acquiring and protecting property, and pursuing happiness.
Section 2 – Power inherent in the people
The people have the ultimate authority over government and have the right to reform or alter it as necessary.
Section 3 – Religious freedom
Protects the right to practice religion freely and prohibits compulsion to support any religious institution.
Section 4 – Freedom of speech and press
Guarantees the liberty of speech and of the press; individuals are responsible for the abuse of these freedoms.
Section 5 – Unreasonable searches and seizures
Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures; warrants must be issued with probable cause.
Section 6 – Right to trial by jury
Preserves the right to a jury trial in both criminal and civil cases.
Section 6-A – Victims’ rights
Guarantees basic rights to crime victims, including the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
Section 7 – Self-incrimination and due process
Protects against self-incrimination and ensures due process of law before deprivation of life, liberty, or property.
Section 8 – Double jeopardy
Prohibits being tried twice for the same offense after an acquittal or conviction.
Section 9 – Bail and fines
Prohibits excessive bail and fines, and cruel or unusual punishment.
Section 10 – Habeas corpus
Ensures the right to a writ of habeas corpus, protecting against unlawful detention.
Section 16 – Right to bear arms
Protects the right of individuals to keep and bear arms for the common defense.
Section 22 – Rights retained by the people
Clarifies that the enumeration of certain rights shall not impair or deny others retained by the people.
This Article I consists of 24 sections in total and is central to Maine’s commitment to individual rights and constitutional governance.
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