The defendant cannot be compelled to testify.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only in civil cases
• D. Only if charged with a capital offense

Answer: (A)

The privilege against self-incrimination protects individuals from being forced to testify about matters that could expose them to criminal liability. In a criminal trial, a defendant cannot be compelled to testify and may choose to remain silent. They may decide to take the stand if they wish, but the decision is theirs alone and the court cannot require it. If the defendant stays silent, the jury should not view that silence as evidence of guilt, and the prosecution is typically limited in commenting on the decision to testify. This safeguard keeps the burden of proof on the prosecution and ensures the defendant has control over their own testimony.