What are Miranda rights?

Miranda rights are specific rights that must be communicated to a suspect following their arrest, ensuring they are aware of their legal protections while in police custody. The primary purpose of these rights is to inform individuals of their right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. This acknowledgment helps protects against self-incrimination and ensures any statements made during custodial interrogation are voluntary and informed.

The necessity of reading these rights is anchored in the Fifth Amendment, which protects individuals from being compelled to testify against themselves, and the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel. These rights are particularly crucial because, without being informed of them, any statements or confessions obtained by law enforcement may be considered inadmissible in court. Understanding this principle is vital for both law enforcement personnel and individuals interacting with the justice system.