Hey folks,
I’ve been binge-watching crime dramas, and they keep mentioning “Miranda rights.” Can someone break down what they actually are and why they’re so important? Any real-life examples of how they work would be awesome too!
Thanks!
Miranda rights inform suspects of their right to remain silent and to have an attorney during questioning. They prevent self-incrimination and ensure fair treatment in custody. Key in many court cases.
Miranda rights are a set of warnings police must give you before questioning you about a crime. Basically, you have the right to remain silent, anything you say can be used against you, and you have the right to a lawyer.
Miranda rights are essential when questioning someone about their involvement in a crime while they are arrested. Even when they are not imprisoned and you are conducting preliminary “fact-finding,” such as on a radio conversation, you are not required to read Miranda. Once you’ve determined that someone is a suspect and decide to detain them, you’ll read Miranda, but only if you ask them about the crime.