The Illinois Constitution guarantees criminal due process of law to all citizens. This means that the government must follow fair and reasonable procedures when it brings criminal charges against an individual. This includes the right to a fair trial, the right to be represented by counsel, the right to confront witnesses, the right to a speedy trial, the right to a trial by jury, the right to be free from self-incrimination and the right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. Additionally, in Illinois, the accused is considered innocent until proven guilty and the prosecution bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. These rights are protected by the U.S. Constitution as well as the Illinois Constitution, and are considered critical to ensuring that justice is served in criminal cases.