Which amendment provides inmates with a right to due process regarding disciplinary actions?

The right to due process concerning disciplinary actions for inmates is primarily established under the 14th Amendment. This amendment ensures that no individual is deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law. For inmates, this due process relates specifically to disciplinary actions within correctional facilities.

Inmates are considered to have certain rights, even while incarcerated, and the 14th Amendment is the foundation that upholds those rights during disciplinary proceedings. It mandates that fair procedures must be followed to ensure justice, such as the opportunity for the inmate to defend themselves against allegations, to have a fair hearing, and to have a written statement regarding the evidence supporting any disciplinary action taken against them.

While the 5th Amendment also addresses due process, it generally applies to federal actions, whereas the 14th Amendment specifically extends due process protections to actions taken by state entities, which is crucial in a state prison context. The 1st and 6th Amendments do not pertain directly to due process regarding disciplinary actions within correctional facilities.