When are Miranda warnings required?

• A. During any police-citizen conversation.
• B. During custodial interrogation.
• C. Only when a suspect asks for counsel.
• D. When a warrant is not yet obtained.

Answer: (B)

Miranda warnings are required when a person is in custody and subjected to interrogation. Custody means the person’s freedom of movement is restrained to the degree that it resembles an arrest. Interrogation covers direct questions or words and actions likely to elicit an incriminating answer. If the person is not in custody and not being questioned with the purpose of obtaining evidence, warnings aren’t required. Also, if a suspect asks for counsel, questioning must stop until counsel is present or the suspect reinitiates and waives rights. Warrants have no bearing on whether warnings are needed.