Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

What is typically required before an officer can conduct an interrogation?

1. Reading the suspect their Miranda rights

2. Obtaining a warrant

3. A confession from the suspect

4. Having a defense attorney present

The correct answer is: Reading the suspect their Miranda rights

Reading the suspect their Miranda rights is typically required before an officer can conduct an interrogation. This requirement stems from the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Miranda v. Arizona, which established that individuals in custody must be informed of their rights to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. This ensures that suspects are aware of their rights and can make informed choices about whether to speak to law enforcement. Failure to provide these warnings can result in any statements made by the suspect being inadmissible in court. While obtaining a warrant is necessary for certain types of searches and seizures, it is not a prerequisite for conducting an interrogation. A confession from the suspect is not required prior to interrogation, as the purpose of the interrogation is often to elicit such a confession. Having a defense attorney present is not mandated at the outset of an interrogation, though a suspect has the right to request one. Thus, the requirement to read Miranda rights serves to protect the suspect's Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights during the interrogation process.