What is the purpose of reading Miranda rights to a suspect?

The purpose of reading Miranda rights to a suspect is fundamentally centered on informing them of their right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. This process stems from the landmark Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona, which established that suspects must be made aware of these rights prior to any custodial interrogation. By doing so, law enforcement officers help protect the suspect's Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and ensure that any statements made during questioning are voluntary and informed.

Providing this critical information allows suspects to understand their rights and protects the integrity of the legal process. If the rights are not read or understood, any information obtained during questioning might be deemed inadmissible in court. Therefore, making suspects aware of their right to silence is not just a procedural formality; it is a vital step to safeguard their constitutional rights and ensure a fair legal process.