Washington State Correctional Officer Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive All-In-One Guide to Succeed!

The correct answer summarizes the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, which guarantees essential civil liberties. Specifically, it protects an individual's rights to freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition. This foundation allows citizens to express their opinions, gather together peacefully, and convey their grievances to the government without fear of persecution or censorship.

The importance of this amendment lies in its role as a cornerstone of democracy and individual freedom, ensuring that individuals can share their thoughts and beliefs openly. This is crucial for fostering a society where diverse viewpoints can coexist, and where individuals can question authority and contribute to public discourse.

The other options relate to different amendments within the Bill of Rights: protection against unreasonable searches pertains to the Fourth Amendment, the right to a speedy trial refers to the Sixth Amendment, and protection against self-incrimination is found in the Fifth Amendment. Each of these addresses distinct aspects of legal rights and protections for individuals.