Page:Constitution of the state of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations - 1824.djvu/15

 1. Every person, within this State, ought to find a certain remedy, by having recourse to the laws, for all injuries or wrongs which he may receive in his person, property or character. He ought to obtain right and justice freely, and without being obliged to purchase it; completely and without any denial; promptly and without delay; conformably to the laws.

2. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers and possessions, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated: and no warrant shall issue, but on complaint in writing, upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and describing, as nearly as may be, the place to be searched, and the person or things to be seized.

3. No person shall be holden to answer a capital or other infamous crime, unless on presentment or indictment by a grand jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the militia, when in actual service, in time of war or public danger. No person shall be liable to be tried, after an acquittal, for the same crime or offence.

4. Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel punishments inflicted; and all punishments ought to be proportioned to the offence.

5. All prisoners ought to be bailable by sufficient sureties, unless for capital offences, when the proof is evident, or the presumption great. The privilege of the writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public safety shall require it, nor ever, without the authority of the Legislature, nor for a longer period than sixty days at any one time.

6. In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the privilege of a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury; to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process to obtain them in his favor; and to have the assistance of counsel in his defence. Nor shall he be de-