Miranda rights

Definition

Miranda rights are a set of legal protections afforded to individuals in the United States upon arrest, ensuring they are aware of their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination and their Sixth Amendment right to an attorney. These rights must be read by law enforcement officers before questioning a suspect in custody.

Related terms

Fifth Amendment:

The part of the U.S. Constitution that provides protection against self-incrimination, stating that no individual "shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself."

Sixth Amendment:

A section of the U.S. Constitution guaranteeing citizens the right to a speedy and public trial, the right to an attorney, and the right to confront witnesses against them.

Custodial Interrogation: Refers to questioning initiated by law enforcement officers after a person has been taken into custody or otherwise deprived of his or her freedom of action in any significant way