Understanding Your Rights

Most of us are familiar with the idea of rights, better known as “Miranda Rights” or the “Miranda Warning,” but are they really the same as depicted in movies? Are police really required to read them to suspects? When it comes to understanding your rights, many notice that the language may be formal in some cases, and informal in others. Yet, the substance of a person’s rights, when read to them, must be communicated in a way that the suspect can understand.

With the closing of Miranda V. Arizona in 1966, the United States Court’s decision had a remarkable impact on law enforcement and routine procedures therein. For instance, reading of the Miranda Rights became mandatory for suspects in police custody, before the interrogation process. The intention of the rights was to ensure that the accused person was aware and reminded of their rights throughout the process. In other words, at any point during interrogation, the suspect could end questioning by requesting the presence of an attorney. Many are surprised to learn that the Miranda Rights heard on television are very close to what is heard in real life. Consider the following:

• You have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions.
• Anything that you say may be used against you in a court of law.
• You have the right to consult an attorney before speaking to the police and to have an attorney present with you during questioning now or in the future.
• If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you before any questioning if you desire.
• If you decide to answer questions now without an attorney present, you will still have the right to stop answering at any time until you talk with an attorney.

In some cases, where a suspect has not been made aware of their rights or they do not understand them, it’s imperative that they consult a criminal defense attorney. While the police cannot use anything you say against you in the absence of the Miranda Rights, you may not be out of the woods just yet.

Achieving The Best Outcome For Your Case

With nearly a quarter of a century spent in the courtroom, Attorney M. Qader A. Baig is an asset to any case. Mr. Baig stands behind the fundamental principle that the law is created to protect the rights and freedoms of people. Thus, Mr. Baig and the law firm of M. Qader A. Baig & Associates will work tirelessly to achieve the best outcome for your case. For outstanding legal counsel, call today to consult with Mr. Baig in person.