What legal rights does a suspect have during an interrogation?

A suspect has the right to remain silent during an interrogation, which is a fundamental protection under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This right ensures that individuals cannot be compelled to provide testimony against themselves, a principle designed to prevent self-incrimination. When a suspect chooses to exercise this right, law enforcement must inform them about the implications of speaking and must cease interrogations if the suspect indicates they do not wish to answer questions.

This right is also reinforced by the Miranda v. Arizona decision, which established that suspects must be informed of their rights prior to any custodial interrogation. Understanding this right is critical for both law enforcement professionals conducting interrogations and for suspects themselves, as it shapes the dynamics of how information is gathered and ensures fair treatment throughout the legal process.