have a right to

Idioms  

1. Have a just or legal claim on something or on some action, as in The accused has a right to legal counsel. The related have the right to is often used with infinitives, as in You have the right to remain silent. [Late 1300s] The antonym, dating from the mid-1600s, is have no right to, as in He has no right to push you aside. Also see in the right.

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Example Sentences

We still have a right to trial by jury, a right to counsel, due process—all of these basic protections in the playbook that we assume everyone is working from.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

Prisoners have a right to communication, even if it isn’t meant to be exercised.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

During a call with analysts on Monday, EchoStar executives noted that they have a right to equity in SpaceX, but that they don’t actually have a stake yet.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 2, 2026

Parent Toni Belcher said that students have a right to be heard.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

"He is still your elder brother. If either of you can be said to have a right to the Iron Throne, it must be Lord Stannis."

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin