Substantive due process refers to the principle that laws and government actions must be fair and reasonable, and that individuals have certain fundamental rights that cannot be infringed upon by the government. This concept limits the government's power to pass laws or take actions that are arbitrary, oppressive, or unjust. It also ensures that individuals are entitled to certain rights and protections, regardless of the specific procedures followed in legal proceedings. Substantive due process requires that laws and government actions be justified by a legitimate government interest and be narrowly tailored to achieve that interest. It is a crucial component of constitutional law in protecting individual rights and limiting government overreach.
