Vocabulary List (Miranda v. Arizona)

Custodial Interrogation

Questioning by law enforcement after a person has been taken into custody or deprived of freedom.

Self-Incrimination

When someone says or does something that shows they are guilty of a crime.

Fifth Amendment

The part of the U.S. Constitution that protects against self-incrimination and guarantees due process.

Sixth Amendment

The part of the U.S. Constitution that guarantees the right to counsel and a fair trial.

Confession

A statement admitting to committing a crime.

Voluntariness

Whether a confession or statement was made freely, without force or pressure.

Procedural Safeguards

Rules created to protect a person’s constitutional rights during the justice process.

Miranda Rights / Miranda Warnings

The warnings police must give before custodial

questioning (right to remain silent, right to an attorney, etc.).

Waiver

When someone gives up (relinquishes) a legal right, often knowingly and voluntarily.

Admissibility

Whether evidence can be used in court.

Coercion

Using pressure, threats, or force to make someone do something, such as confess.

Majority Opinion

The official decision of the Court, supported by most of the justices.

Dissenting Opinion

A written disagreement by justices who did not agree with the Court’s majority decision.

Precedent

A legal decision that serves as an example or rule for future similar cases.

Due Process

Fair treatment under the law; legal steps the government must follow before depriving someone of life, liberty, or property.