Invoking the Fifth Amendment in a Congressional hearing serves one primary function: avoiding compelled self-incrimination. This protection stems from the constitutional right against being forced to testify in any proceeding where that testimony might expose you to criminal liability. Legal precedents like *Bramble v. United States* and *Carpenter v. United States* affirm this right within legislative contexts. However, the right is not absolute. You may still be required to testify on non-incriminating matters and can face civil consequences. The distinction between testimonial and physical evidence matters here. The Fifth Amendment protects against compelled testimonial evidence, such as verbal or written statements. It does not protect physical evidence, like documents or bodily samples. Invoking the Fifth Amendment in a Congressional hearing is a recognized legal right with defined scope and limitations.
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