The Fifth Amendment’s Role in Custodial Interrogations (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Chicago – Encounters with law enforcement can unfold quickly in a bustling city like this, leaving individuals unsure of their next move after an arrest.
The Fifth Amendment’s Role in Custodial Interrogations
Arrests in Chicago often lead to immediate questioning by officers eager to gather information. Yet, the U.S. Constitution provides a clear safeguard through the Fifth Amendment, which protects against self-incrimination. This right allows anyone in custody to remain silent, preventing statements from being used against them in court.
Illinois law reinforces this protection, emphasizing that no one must answer police queries without legal counsel. Officers may pressure individuals to speak, but invoking silence early can halt the process. Courts have long upheld that silence cannot be interpreted as guilt, making it a strategic choice during tense moments…