Many people have heard of their right to remain silent, even if just in passing. But how does it actually come into play if you are facing an arrest or interrogation?
Understanding your Miranda rights is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself safe during an interrogation scene.
Your right to remain silent
Miranda Warning takes a look at Miranda rights and how they apply to arrest situations. Generally speaking, Miranda rights provide you with protection for two important rights.
The first is your right to remain silent. Specifically, it is your right to remain silent in order to avoid the possibility of incriminating yourself. Officers cannot legally force you to speak with them after reading your Miranda rights, which they have a legal obligation to do.
Of course, you can still choose to speak with them, and they may even take steps to make this seem like the more desirable option. But doing so gives up your other right as well.
Your right to legal counsel
The second is your right to legal counsel. If you do not have the money to afford your own legal representation, the state must provide you with one. This is recommended because attorneys understand how to speak with police in these situations. It is one more way to keep you from accidentally self-incriminating.
It is up to each individual to decide if they want to utilize these rights or not. Keep in mind that if you invoke your right to remain silent but still speak to officers, they can still use whatever you say against you in a court of law.