Florida Criminal Attorney Blog
As a U.S. citizen, you have what is known as Miranda Rights. The term Miranda Rights has its origins in a 1966 U.S. Supreme Court Case known as Miranda v. Arizona. The court’s ruling on this matter gives anyone in police custody or facing potential criminal charges to be advised of their right against self-incrimination. This is also an element of the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
If you are taken into police custody for any reason, you are required to be given a Miranda warning briefing you on your rights. The Miranda warning must include the following information:
- You have the right to remain silent
- Anything you say may later be used against you
- You are legally entitled to speak with an attorney
- If you are unable to afford an attorney, one will be provided for you at no cost
The main purpose of a Miranda warning is to let the person in police custody understand that they have the right to remain silent. This must be communicated clearly to the person detained before any questioning by law enforcement.
What Does It Mean for You if You Were Not Given a Miranda Warning?
If law enforcement fails to properly advise or “mirandize” an individual in custody, the case could be dismissed, but this all depends on the evidence available. If the case has been established mostly on statements that the individual gave without a proper notice of Miranda warnings then those statements could be deemed inadmissible, which would likely lead to a dismissal. If the case has been built based on other evidence, then it is unlikely that the case will hinge on the lack of proper notice of Miranda Rights, but depending on specifics, the case could still possibly be dismissed.
What To Do If You Are Arrested
If you have been arrested and read your Miranda warnings, it is important to ask to speak to your lawyer immediately. Despite what law enforcement may tell you while you are in their custody, police investigators are not looking out for your best interests.
If you are charged with a crime, understand that only an attorney can help you. Our Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton have the experience to defend clients in the Florida criminal justice system. Please call us today at 866-608-5529 to schedule a free initial consultation or contact us online.