Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

When should the Miranda warning be read to juveniles?

1. After interrogation begins

2. In any situation involving a juvenile

3. When they are in custody and before interrogation

4. Only if they request it

The correct answer is: When they are in custody and before interrogation

The Miranda warning must be read to juveniles when they are in custody and before any interrogation takes place. This requirement arises from the principles established in Miranda v. Arizona, which aimed to protect an individual's Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. The rationale is that individuals, including juveniles, must be adequately informed of their rights to ensure that any statements made during interrogation are voluntary and fully informed. In the context of juveniles, it is particularly important to provide these warnings before questioning, as they may not fully understand their rights or the implications of waiving them. Therefore, giving the warning when they are in custody serves to ensure that they are aware of their right to remain silent and to have legal counsel present during questioning. The other options do not correctly reflect the legal requirements: reading the warning after interrogation undermines the purpose of ensuring voluntary statements, stating it is necessary in any situation involving a juvenile is overly broad, and asserting it is only needed if they request it neglects the obligation of law enforcement to provide these protections proactively. Thus, the correct timing is crucial for upholding the rights of juvenile suspects.