PART 5 CONFESSIONS AND INTERROGATIONS

Voluntary Confession

A confession that is made freely and willingly, without coercion or intimidation.

Custodial Interrogation

An interrogation where a suspect is in custody, meaning their freedom of action is significantly deprived.

Miranda Warnings

Rights that must be read to a suspect before custodial interrogation, informing them of their right to remain silent and to an attorney.

Fruit of the Poisonous Tree

Legal doctrine stating that evidence obtained illegally, such as through an unlawful arrest, is inadmissible in court.

Tactical Deception

Using lies or misleading information during an interrogation as a strategy to elicit confessions.

Fifth Amendment Right to Silence

The right of individuals to refuse to answer questions or make statements that might incriminate them.

Waiver of Rights

The voluntary relinquishment of known legal rights, such as the right to remain silent before questioning.

Inadmissible Confession

A confession that cannot be used in court due to issues regarding its voluntariness or the circumstances under which it was obtained.

Juvenile Interrogation Rules

Special legal protections regarding custodial interrogations of minors, requiring guardian presence unless a lawyer is present.

Statutory Protection

Legal requirements established by law to protect an individual's rights during police questioning.