What is a Miranda warning?

A Miranda warning is a notice of rights given to individuals before questioning, typically when they are in custody and subject to interrogation. This warning is rooted in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which ensures that individuals are aware of their rights to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. The primary purpose of the Miranda warning is to protect the suspect's rights against self-incrimination and to ensure that any statements made during questioning are admissible in court.

When law enforcement officials inform a suspect of their rights to refrain from speaking and to seek legal counsel, it helps safeguard the legal process and maintains the integrity of the judicial system. If these rights are not communicated properly, any confession or statements made by the individual during interrogation may not be used as evidence in court. Thus, providing a Miranda warning is a critical step in upholding legal standards in law enforcement practices.