The reading of a suspect's Miranda Rights plays a key role in their criminal defense. Because anyone accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty, these rights provide a crucial safeguard that allows a suspect to protect themselves from inadvertent self-incrimination or incrimination of others. Here is a brief overview of Miranda Rights and their critical function in criminal defense.

Your Miranda Rights in Full

Upon arrest, a police officer will read or recite the following to the suspect:

"You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand the rights I have just read to you? With these rights in mind, do you wish to speak to me?"

At this point, the suspect need not say anything other than a polite "No," and then proceed to keep quiet until they've secured the services of a criminal defense attorney.

What They Mean

First and foremost, Miranda Rights are meant to inform you of your constitutional rights. You have the right to maintain silent, the right to an attorney's counsel, and the right to know that, if you do choose to speak, whatever is said could be used to build a case against you. They are intended to give a suspect the fairest shot possible in a court of law when faced with the prosecution's evidence.

Sometimes, police will forget to read a suspect their Miranda Rights. In cases like this, some or all of the prosecution's evidence could be thrown out, depending on what the suspect says or does not say following arrest. If you weren't advised of your Miranda Rights, tell your criminal defense attorney immediately.

 

Facing criminal charges is never easy; let the lawyers at D'Agosto & Howe fight for you. They serve Fairfield County, Connecticut, residents in criminal defense, work and personal injury, and family law issues. Call (203) 712-0210 or visit their website to set up an initial consultation today.