Which amendment prevents excessive fines and cruel punishment?

The amendment that prevents excessive fines and cruel and unusual punishment is the 8th Amendment. This amendment is a crucial part of the Bill of Rights and specifically addresses concerns about the fairness of the criminal justice system. It serves to protect individuals from excessively harsh penalties that do not fit the crime committed, thereby maintaining a standard of humanity in the administration of justice.

The provision against cruel and unusual punishment is particularly significant as it prohibits methods of punishment deemed inhumane or degrading, reinforcing the principle of proportionality in sentencing. In addition, the clause against excessive fines ensures that penalties imposed by the government are not disproportionately punitive in relation to the offense. This role of the 8th Amendment is essential in upholding individual rights and ensuring that punishment is fair and just, reflecting the values of a civilized society.