[sinuhe69]

If not the 5A, on what can one use to refuse to testify in court? The law can not compel you to help the government investigate somebody, right?

[HWR_14]

The standard other exemptions are doctor-patient, attorney-client, religious leader-religious person, and spousal confidentiality laws. Some, but not all, states also shield journalist's sources. In the last case, in states without a shield law, going to jail to protect a source's identity is considered a professional honor.

[jvanderbot]

Oh I believe they can. Isn't it called a supoena?

[TillE]

Yes. I mean, that's the whole point of that part of the fifth amendment. There would be no need for an explicit carveout of self-incrimination if the government didn't have the general ability to compel witnesses to testify.

[ethanbond]

Exactly. I suppose in some sense you have to admire America’s ability to produce people who believe the government has ~zero authority.

“The government can’t possibly do [basic function of every government since dawn of tribal life], can it?”

Yes indeed it can.

[ajhurliman]

There’s just so much freedom over here it’s hard to tell where ends and where it begins.

[l0wp1t]

They can compell you testify if they offer you immunity.