ABSTRACT
Immunity is most often cited as a Fifth Amendment protection against being compelled to be a witness against oneself in a criminal case. The right of immunity exempts a US citizen from liability imposed by criminal or civil law. In addition to the right of immunity available to citizens, immunity may also be extended to individuals because of their official status. Protection of government officials from lawsuits is known as "sovereign immunity." The concept was originally based on the claim that kings were immune to legal action. Legislators are immune from criminal arrest as well as from civil liability for statements made during legislative speeches and debate. Similarly, presiding judges cannot be charged with civil or criminal libel for judgments rendered in court cases. Finally, officials of other governments are extended immunity for their actions in the United States under a doctrine known as "diplomatic immunity.".
