Why does the ACLU concern itself with technicalities in protecting criminal rights?
The “technicalities” the ACLU protects are some of the most basic of all our liberties. They come directly from our Bill of Rights. As is so often said in TV crime shows, “You have the right to remain silent, you have the right to an attorney, you must be questioned in the presence of an attorney and if you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided.” Under the U.S. legal system, you are also guaranteed to be presumed innocent until proven guilty. Police and court studies have shown no reduction in the ability to fight crime because basic constitutional rights are accorded to those arrested for crimes. In fact, we’re all better off when police “play by the rules” and respect our Bill of Rights.
