Your Miranda Rights

Since the landmark 1966 case of Miranda v. Arizona, arresting officers in the United States have been required to issue you what have come to be known as your Miranda rights.  The Supreme Court mandated these warnings as a way of protecting the Fifth Amendment rights of criminal suspects and preventing their rights from being either accidentally or purposely infringed upon.  It is important for every citizen to be familiar with his or her rights in order to make sure they are not violated.

The Miranda Warnings

The arresting officer is required to warn you of your rights by issuing you the following warnings:

“You have the right to remain silent.  Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.” The Fifth Amendment protects you from giving testimony against yourself.  Things you tell the officer can be used as evidence against you.
“You have the right to an attorney present during questioning. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.” Everyone has the right to representation in court, under US law.  If you cannot afford to hire your own attorney, the state will provide you with a court-ordered attorney for your defense.
“Do you understand these rights?” Subsequent court rulings have determined that officers must establish that the suspect understands the rights that are being described to him or her.  A firm yes is usually required.

Contact Us

It is illegal for officers to violate your Miranda rights.  If you were not read your rights when you were arrested, you may be able to have your case dismissed.  Contact the Boca Raton criminal defense attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. by calling 561-353-2800 today.