Sacrificing rights for security
There have been some fundamental changes to Americans’ legal rights since Sept. 11.
Freedom of Speech
Government may prosecute librarians or keepers of any other records if they tell anyone that the government subpoenaed information related to a terror investigation.
Freedom of Association
Government may monitor religious and political institutions without suspecting criminal activity to assist terror investigation.
Freedom of Information
Government has closed oncepublic immigration hearings, has secretly detained hundreds of people without charges, and has encouraged bureaucrats to resist public records requests.
Freedom from unreasonable searches
Government may search and seize Americans’ papers and effects without probable cause to assist terror investigation.
Right to legal representation
Government may monitor federal prison conversations between attorneys and clients, and deny lawyers to Americans accused of crimes.
Right to a speedy and public trial
Government may jail Americans indefinitely without a trial.
Right to liberty
Americans may be jailed without being charged or being able to confront witnesses against them.