What rights were citizens denied before the Confrontation Clause existed? (1 point)

Question

• Before, you could be jailed without evidence.
• Before, you could not obtain witnesses to testify in your defense.
• Before, witnesses did not have to testify in court.
• Before, you were guaranteed legal counsel provided by the court.

Answer 1

Before the Confrontation Clause existed, citizens were primarily denied the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses against them, which relates to the options provided. Hence, the most relevant option is:

• Before, you could not obtain witnesses to testify in your defense.

The Confrontation Clause, which is part of the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, guarantees a defendant the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses who provide testimonial evidence against them in a criminal trial. This right is fundamental to ensuring a fair trial.