Miranda Warnings In Maryland And Your Rights
There are protections in place against incriminating yourself under the Fifth Amendment. It was decided by the Supreme Court in 1966 that an individual taken into custody must have their rights read to them before they can be interrogated. These rights are sometimes referred to as Miranda warnings or Miranda rights.
If you have been arrested for a Maryland DUI or other offense, connect with an experienced Baltimore criminal lawyer to discuss your rights. A knowledgeable lawyer can guide you through the process and strengthen your defense along the way.
Dismissed Cases and Reduced Sentences
When an officer does not read you your rights, there could be a path to have charges dismissed, but not always. When there is a lot of solid evidence on the side of the prosecutor, it may not be possible to have the arrest thrown out, but even in these situations there is a path to fighting for reduced charges when police failed to follow important protocols.
Whether your rights have been read or not, work to remain silent while under investigation or questioned. Volunteering information you are not required to provide legally may work against you as the case progresses.
Rights you will be informed of in a Miranda warning:
- Right to remain silent
- If you do volunteer information, it may be used against you in court
- A lawyer will be appointed if you can’t afford one
- Right to have an attorney present for questioning
- Stopping the questioning if you decide to talk is possible
Connect with a lawyer as soon as possible following an arrest. Simply tell the authorities, politely and calmly, that you have been advised to not answer questions until your counsel is present. Information that is obtained during interviews could be used against you in trial. Talk to a lawyer before answering questions.
Confessing Involuntarily Could Happen
It is important to realize that you could say something that incriminates you even if you believe your answers are well-thought out. Police and other law enforcement professionals are well trained in questioning and interrogation tactics. Voluntarily sharing information could be too dangerous, to protect yourself, remain silent.
Maryland arrests can be complicated and there may be more legal issues than you realize. Attorneys with criminal law experience have the experience to look over the details of your arrest and suss out any possible way to have charges reduced or dismissed. You will have more options when you start the process early. Discuss the details of your case as soon as possible with a Baltimore criminal lawyer to learn more.
Are you unsure if you were treated properly or not during a Maryland arrest? Whether you were read your Miranda rights or not, legal professionals can assess the details of your situation and determine the best strategy given the specifics of your unique case. To discuss a strong path forward, contact Iamele & Iamele, LLP. Our experienced legal team will work diligently to protect your rights. Contact us today for a confidential, no-cost consultation.
