The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution provides that a person accused of a crime has the right to a speedy and public trial, and states that:

“In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the state and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.”

In Arizona, the Sixth Amendment rights are upheld through both federal and state laws. The right to a speedy and public trial is guaranteed, ensuring that criminal defendants are tried without undue delay and that the proceedings are open to the public. Arizona courts interpret 'speedy' based on the specifics of each case, considering factors such as the length of the delay, the reason for the delay, the defendant's assertion of their right, and prejudice to the defendant. The right to an impartial jury is also protected, with jurors selected from a cross-section of the community in the district where the crime occurred. Defendants in Arizona have the right to be informed of the charges against them, to confront and cross-examine witnesses, to subpoena witnesses in their favor, and to have the assistance of an attorney. If a defendant cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed by the court at no cost to the defendant, as per the ruling in Gideon v. Wainwright. These rights are fundamental to the criminal justice process and are rigorously enforced to ensure fair trials in Arizona.