Essentially, most often it means not to be required to testify against oneself in a court of law. There is more, however, explained below http://www.lectlaw.com/def/f083.htm
Apr 30 2004, 7:26 PM
Buck540
Answer has 2 votes
Buck540
Answer has 2 votes.
In the US Constitution, the 5th Amendment ensures the right of an individual not to testify against themselves in court.
May 01 2004, 1:44 PM
willo'wisp
Answer has 3 votes
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willo'wisp 19 year member
22 replies
Answer has 3 votes.
Currently voted the best answer.
The Fifth Amendment protects witnesses from being forced to incriminate themselves. To "plead the Fifth" is a refusal to answer a question because the response could form self incriminating evidence.
http://www.lectlaw.com/def/f083.htm