Miranda rights equation?

• A. Interrogation + custody
• B. Interrogation + consent
• C. Custody + summons
• D. Interrogation + appearance in court

Answer: (A)

Miranda warnings come into play only when two conditions exist at the same time: the person is in custody and the police are conducting interrogation. Interrogation means direct questioning or any conduct the investigator knows is likely to elicit an incriminating response. Custody means a reasonable person would not feel free to leave, such as being in a police interrogation room or in custody after an arrest. If you’re not in custody, or if the officer isn’t asking questions meant to draw out information, Miranda warnings aren’t triggered.

Among the options, the combination that fits both required elements is interrogation plus custody. The other pairings don’t fit: speaking with consent isn’t the same as being interrogated; being summoned or appearing in court isn’t about police interrogation in the moment.