Which amendment addresses the right to a speedy trial?

The Sixth Amendment is the one that specifically addresses the right to a speedy trial. This amendment guarantees several rights to individuals accused of crimes, including the right to a public trial, an impartial jury, and importantly, the right to a speedy trial. The intention behind this provision is to prevent prolonged incarceration and the anxiety and uncertainty that comes with it, as well as to ensure that justice is not delayed unnecessarily.

The inclusion of this right in the Sixth Amendment reflects the Founding Fathers' commitment to ensuring fair legal processes and the prompt administration of justice. It serves to protect defendants from the potential abuses of the legal system that can occur when trials are unduly delayed. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the judicial system and securing the freedoms laid out in the Constitution.