What does the Fourteenth Amendment guarantee regarding legal proceedings?

The Fourteenth Amendment is a crucial part of the United States Constitution that addresses citizenship rights and equal protection under the law. One of its key components is the guarantee of due process. This means that the government cannot deprive any individual of life, liberty, or property without following the proper legal procedures. Due process ensures fairness in legal proceedings, which includes the right to be heard, the right to present a defense, and the right to have access to a fair trial.

The phrasing and protections under the Fourteenth Amendment extend to state actions, requiring states to observe the same legal standards that protect individuals from the federal government. This is particularly significant because it reinforces the principle that everyone has the right to fair treatment under the law irrespective of state legislation or actions.

In contrast, the other options presented do not stem from the Fourteenth Amendment. Voluntary statements and their admissibility in court relate more to evidentiary rules rather than constitutional guarantees. The right to bear arms is specifically addressed in the Second Amendment, and the right to a speedy trial is protected under the Sixth Amendment.