What are 'Miranda Rights'?

'Miranda Rights' refer specifically to the legal requirements that law enforcement must follow when arresting a suspect. These rights ensure that the individual is aware of their constitutional protections, particularly the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. The purpose of reading these rights, which originated from the landmark Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona in 1966, is to prevent self-incrimination and ensure that suspects are fully informed about their legal rights during the custodial interrogation process.

When a suspect is taken into custody, officers are mandated to inform them of these rights before questioning can proceed. Failing to do so can result in any statements made by the suspect being deemed inadmissible in court.

The other choices do not accurately capture the definition of 'Miranda Rights' as they pertain to police procedure. For instance, guidelines for police interaction with the media relate to public relations rather than individual rights. Protocols for conducting search and seizure focus on the legal standards for obtaining evidence and do not involve informing suspects of their rights. Principles for ethical conduct in investigations speak to the broader responsibilities of law enforcement but do not specifically address the rights of individuals upon arrest.