Which concept requires fair legal procedures and non-discriminatory government actions in Maryland?

Which concept requires fair legal procedures and non-discriminatory government actions in Maryland?

• A. Freedom of speech
• B. Judicial review
• C. Due process and equal protection
• D. Federalism

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is the protection against unfair government actions and procedures. Procedural due process ensures fair treatment by the government: before a person can be deprived of life, liberty, or property, they must receive notice, a hearing, and a fair opportunity to be heard. Equal protection requires that the government treats people in similar situations alike and does not discriminate in its laws and actions. Together, these concepts guard both the fairness of legal processes and the nondiscriminatory application of government power, which Maryland follows just as the U.S. Constitution does. Choices focusing on free expression, the power of courts to review laws, or the division of powers between levels of government don’t address both fair procedures and nondiscrimination in the same comprehensive way.

The idea being tested is the protection against unfair government actions and procedures. Procedural due process ensures fair treatment by the government: before a person can be deprived of life, liberty, or property, they must receive notice, a hearing, and a fair opportunity to be heard. Equal protection requires that the government treats people in similar situations alike and does not discriminate in its laws and actions. Together, these concepts guard both the fairness of legal processes and the nondiscriminatory application of government power, which Maryland follows just as the U.S. Constitution does.

Choices focusing on free expression, the power of courts to review laws, or the division of powers between levels of government don’t address both fair procedures and nondiscrimination in the same comprehensive way.