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 Virginia, the Sixth Amendment rights are upheld and integrated into the state's legal framework. This means that individuals accused of a crime in Virginia are entitled to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury, which is selected from the state and specific district where the crime occurred. The Commonwealth ensures that the district is established by law prior to any legal proceedings. Defendants must be informed of the charges and evidence against them, and they have the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses. Additionally, they have the right to subpoena witnesses in their defense. Importantly, the Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to have the assistance of an attorney. If a defendant cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed by the court. These rights are designed to ensure a fair trial and to protect the legal rights of individuals facing criminal prosecution.