In History / Senior High School | 2025-03-31

When seeking justice, officers must not take advantage of the fact that someone has a low income.


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Some people might not know they have the right not to speak to the authorities.


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Having a lawyer present during questioning helps protect a person's 5th Amendment right to remain silent.


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A person needs to understand not just the basic right, but also the consequences of not exercising that right.


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If at any point the person says they don't want to talk, any statement taken after that must have been forced.


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Being reminded of this basic right makes a person less likely to give up their right if investigators make it seem like silence proves the person is guilty.


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Someone could think the right to talk to a lawyer means only if you can afford to hire one.


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It helps people realize the questioning is a stage of the legal system and officers are not on their side.


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A lawyer can help make sure any statements made to law enforcement are accurately reported during a trial.


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Telling someone the basic right up front lets the person know authorities recognize the right exists.

A.
If you cannot afford to hire a lawyer, one will be appointed to represent you before any questioning if you wish.

B.
You have the right to remain silent.

C.
You have the right to talk to a lawyer and to have a lawyer present with you while you are being questioned.

D.
Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.

E.
You can decide at any time to exercise these rights and not answer any questions or make any statements.

Asked by kotloskilainie