Do Federal Police Officers Have to Read Me My Miranda Rights?

 Posted on July 13, 2022 in Miranda Rights

Last month, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled on several important cases. While certain cases earned more publicity than others, one of the cases that got the least coverage is the most important for criminal defense purposes. This case, Vega v. Tekoh, clarified that a police officer cannot be sued if he does not give an individual a Miranda warning before interrogating him when that individual’s incriminating statements are introduced as evidence against him in court. 

This has significant implications for criminal defense as it removes a defendant’s ability to seek a remedy for violations of their Miranda rights. If you are being accused of a crime, it is absolutely essential to never give statements to law enforcement that admit guilt. If you are being accused of committing a federal crime, or are even being questioned about one, call an attorney before speaking to investigators. 

What Exactly Are Miranda Rights? 

A Miranda warning is a statement that police are required to give to criminal suspects telling them that they do not need to speak in an interrogation and that anything they say can be used as evidence against them. Miranda warnings also advise suspects that they have a right to an attorney and that, if they cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided. 

Any time that police, including federal police and investigators, want to interrogate a person in custody they must provide them with a Miranda warning. Unfortunately, police officers who do not provide Miranda warnings now cannot be sued for failing to provide this essential protection when self-incriminating statements are introduced as evidence in a court case. 

Involuntary Self-Incriminating Testimony is Still Inadmissible

Police officers of any kind cannot force a suspect or defendant to make statements that admit the defendant’s guilt. If they do force a confession, such forced confessions cannot be used as evidence in court. Although sometimes forced confessions are still used, defendants can appeal to higher courts to overturn the lower court’s ruling. 

A great criminal defense attorney is essential when fighting federal criminal charges. Prosecutors often use dirty tactics and will try to trick defendants into making statements of guilt. Having an attorney present to advise you during an interrogation can help you avoid making statements that can be used against you in court. 

Meet with a Chicago, IL Criminal Defense Attorney Right Away

At Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, protecting your constitutional rights is what we do best. When you are facing charges from state or federal prosecutors, knowing your rights is essential to creating a fair defense. Our experienced Chicago criminal defense attorney will fight passionately to defend your rights and make sure you have the best defense possible. Call our offices today at 312-629-0669 to schedule your free consultation. 

Source: 

https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/21pdf/21-499_gfbh.pdf

http://www.mirandawarning.org/whatareyourmirandarights.html