Of the many court cases that have influenced criminal law across the country, Miranda v. Arizona is one that stands out. Influenced by four separate cases in which incriminating confessions were obtained in custodial interrogations, the Supreme Court’s ruling came to protect the rights of individuals who are arrested. The Supreme Court determined that Fifth Amendment rights apply outside of a courtroom setting, and as such, individuals must be made aware of their rights and the implications of their actions.

What Are Miranda Rights?

Law enforcement officers must inform people that they arrest of their rights before they take them into custody and interrogate them. These rights include the right to remain silent, as well as the right to have a criminal law attorney with you during questioning (as well as the right to have a lawyer appointed to you if you can’t afford one). Officers must also inform you that any statements you provide can be held against you in court.

If officers forget to read you your rights, statements you make after your arrest typically cannot be used for evidence during a trial. However, you can still be prosecuted and convicted based on other pieces of evidence.

How Should You Act If You Are Arrested?

To ensure that you don’t accidentally implicate yourself or subject yourself to additional charges, stay silent. Do not argue with the officers or try to explain your actions, as statements you make could be used against you later. Also, never try to resist arrest. This could result in additional charges against you. Even if you are found innocent of the crime for which you were arrested, resisting the police could still result in fines or jail time.

If you believe your rights were infringed upon, contact Weingast Law. Having these criminal law attorneys on your side will make all the difference. Their team has served Hartford County, CT, residents for over 35 years, using a personal approach to help clients get the justice they deserve. To learn more about this practice’s criminal law services or to schedule a consultation, visit the firm online or call (860) 223-1440.