Which philosopher argued for the protection of the rights of defendants, stating that people should receive a speedy trial?

The philosopher who argued for the protection of the rights of defendants and emphasized the importance of a speedy trial is Beccaria. Cesare Beccaria was an Italian philosopher and a key figure in the development of criminology and criminal justice reforms in the 18th century. In his influential work "On Crimes and Punishments," he advocated for fair trial practices, including the idea that the accused have a right to a prompt trial. This reflects his broader interests in justice, rational legal systems, and the rights of individuals within society—an essential element of Enlightenment thought.

Beccaria's focus on due process and the rights of individuals was groundbreaking for his time and laid the groundwork for modern legal principles aimed at ensuring justice and preventing the abuse of state power in legal proceedings. His philosophies contributed to significant reforms in legal systems, advocating that punishment should fit the crime and that the legal rights of individuals should be protected. This focus on rights, especially in legal contexts like trials, is what makes his arguments so impactful in discussions about criminal justice.