we have civil litigation. former presidents are not immune from being accountable by either one. and joyce, that has always been the understanding of united states senate and everyone in washington government during our lifetime, so president nixon accepted a pardon after resigning the presidency from his successor president jerry ford because he was afraid that he could be prosecuted for the crimes that he had committed while president. yes that is exactly right and we have seen mitch mcconnell literally taking the principle for granted when he speaks from the floor of the senate. that is because of separation of powers in this country. three branches, each with its own distinct responsibilities and rights. impeachment is something that happens religious seats later happens in the legislative branch.