Which statement best defines due process in the context of government?

The definition of due process in the context of government primarily focuses on the protection of individual rights from arbitrary government actions. This principle is enshrined in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that individuals receive fair treatment through the judicial system. Due process requires that legal proceedings be conducted fairly, transparently, and with the opportunity for individuals to be heard.

This serves as a crucial safeguard against abuse by the government, ensuring that everyone has the right to defend themselves and that laws are applied equally. By emphasizing the protection of individual rights, due process reinforces the rule of law and helps maintain public confidence in legal and governmental institutions.