What does the Due Process Clause limit?

The Due Process Clause, found in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution, serves to limit the powers of both national and state governments concerning the treatment of individuals. It provides that no person shall be deprived of "life, liberty, or property, without due process of law." This guarantees that all individuals are afforded fair procedures and legal protections.

The significance of the Due Process Clause lies in its dual application. The Fifth Amendment specifically applies to the federal government, while the Fourteenth Amendment extends these protections to state governments as well. This means that both levels of government are required to adhere to principles of fairness, justice, and legal rights when they are engaging with citizens.

By encompassing protections from both national and state entities, the clause ensures that individuals cannot be unjustly penalized or treated without adequate legal processes. Thus, the correct choice reflects the broad scope of the Due Process Clause in safeguarding individual rights against encroachments by all government levels.