Fifth Amendment

[/ˈfɪfθ əˈmɛndmənt/]
noun
Quinta Emenda
1. The fifth amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1791, which protects individuals from self-incrimination, double jeopardy, and provides due process rights
The suspect invoked the Fifth Amendment and refused to answer questions without a lawyer present.
O suspeito invocou a Quinta Emenda e recusou-se a responder perguntas sem um advogado presente.
2. The right to remain silent and not be compelled to testify against oneself in legal proceedings
She took the Fifth Amendment to avoid incriminating herself during the trial.
Ela invocou a Quinta Emenda para evitar se auto-incriminar durante o julgamento.
The Fifth Amendment is a cornerstone of American legal rights and is frequently referenced in US criminal justice, television shows, and popular culture. In Brazil, the equivalent right exists but is framed differently under the Brazilian Constitution (Article 5, LXIII). Americans widely understand this term and its implications, while in Brazil it requires explanation due to the different legal system.
NYC Slang
Take the Fifth
Synonyms / Sinônimos
right to remain silentprotection against self-incriminationdue process clause

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
Quinta Emenda
Standard translation used in legal and educational contexts
Portugal
Quinta Emenda
Same translation; rarely discussed in Portuguese legal system due to different constitutional framework
USA Legal Portuguese
Quinta Emenda / Direito ao Silêncio
More descriptive translation sometimes used in bilingual legal documents

Related Words

Bill of RightsConstitutiondue processself-incriminationMiranda rightsdouble jeopardy

Related Idioms & Phrases

take the Fifth / invoke the Fifth
plead the Fifth
exercise Fifth Amendment rights
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