due process of law

American  

[doo pros-es uhv law] / ˈdu ˈprɒs ɛs əv ˈlɔ /

noun

1. the regular administration of the law, according to which no individual may be denied their legal rights and all laws must conform to fundamental, accepted legal principles, such as the right of the accused to confront their accusers.

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due process of law British  

noun

1. the administration of justice in accordance with established rules and principles

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due process of law Cultural  

1. The principle that an individual cannot be deprived of life, liberty, or property without appropriate legal procedures and safeguards. The Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution guarantee that any person accused of a crime must be informed of the charges, be provided with legal counsel, be given a speedy and public trial, enjoy equal protection of the laws, and not be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment, unreasonable searches and seizures, double jeopardy, or self-incrimination.

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Etymology

Origin of due process of law

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

The justices blocked her removal and sounded ready to rule she deserved due process of law and a full hearing to contest the allegations.

From Los Angeles Times • May 31, 2026

The US Marine Corps told us it is committed to fair and open proceedings under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, ensuring due process of law.

From BBC • Nov. 16, 2025

They alleged that the government had violated his right to due process of law and provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and federal habeas corpus law.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2025

And it promised that all persons would be protected against deprivations of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.

From Slate • May 8, 2024

It specifically said in section 5: No law shall be enacted in said Islands which shall deprive any person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.

From The American Occupation of the Philippines 1898-1912 by Blount, James H.