The prohibition of cruel or unusual punishment refers to the constitutional protection against punishments that are considered excessively severe, inhumane, or disproportionate to the crime committed.
Related terms
Eighth Amendment: This amendment is where the prohibition against cruel or unusual punishment is found.
Excessive Fines: Refers to fines that are unreasonably high or disproportionately large compared to the offense committed.
Bail: The temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, usually granted by paying a certain amount of money as collateral.