The Question:
What is the seventh amendment?
The Quote:
“In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.”
The Seventh Amendment
The Seventh Amendment of the Constitution provides the United States with the basis for civil courts and juries. Unlike a criminal court which tries to prove guilt of a crime, the civil courts try to settle disputes between people or companies or groups.
A civil claim usually will result from a lawsuit intended to collect money or property from someone else. The twenty dollar price mentioned was based in 1789’s worth, not today’s money. This means that for any somewhat sizable claim against someone, you are entitled to the seventh amendment and the rights it grants.
The law mentioned applies only to federal (national) jurisdictions and not state or local courts. This was intended to give the states some autonomy and prevent the federal government from determining all their laws and indirectly controlling their legal system because of that.
The right to a jury trial was first given in the Sixth Amendment for use in criminal cases. However, this amendment also extends it to civil cases. Instead of a judge determining if the plaintiff (person suing in a civil case) or the defendant (person being sued in a civil case) is correct, a jury would decide it instead. Overall, the seventh amendment is relevant to anyone pursuing a civil case and ensures fairness in non-criminal circumstances.
This is what the seventh amendment is and how it helps people. As always, I’m Joseph Pool, your Poolitician and thank you for plunging into politics!
