Incorporated

Definition

Incorporation refers to applying provisions from the Bill of Rights (the first ten amendments) to restrict state governments' actions. This ensures that states cannot infringe upon certain fundamental freedoms protected at the federal level.

Related terms

Selective Incorporation: The gradual process through which specific provisions of the Bill of Rights have been applied to limit state actions on a case-by-case basis.

Due Process Clause: Part of both the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments ensuring fair treatment during legal proceedings and protection against arbitrary government actions.

State Action Doctrine: The principle that only government actions can violate someone's constitutional rights; private individuals or organizations are generally exempt from constitutional restrictions.