If you have ever watched a crime show, you know the words. "You have the right to remain silent." But where did those words come from? In 1963, a man named Ernesto Miranda was arrested in Phoenix, Arizona. Police questioned him for two hours. He confessed to a crime. But nobody told him he had the right to stay quiet. Nobody told him he could ask for a lawyer. Miranda's case went all the way to the Supreme Court. That is the highest court in the country. On June 13, 1966, the judges made a landmark decision. They ruled that police must tell every person their rights before questioning them. These rights include staying silent and having a lawyer present. The decision was not unanimous. Four judges agreed, but five voted yes. Today, the Miranda warning is read millions of times each year across the country.
Today in History
June 13, 1966
Why do police officers read you your rights before asking questions?
If you have ever watched a crime show, you know the words.
1 min read 5 words to know
Today In History: Why do police officers read you your rights before asking questions?
Words to Know
confessed Supreme landmark lawyer unanimous