Which amendments are connected to the Miranda decision regarding rights before questioning?

• A. First and Fourth.
• B. Second and Fourth.
• C. Fifth and Sixth.
• D. Eighth and Ninth.

Answer: (C)

Miranda rights protect you during police questioning by guarding against self-incrimination and ensuring access to legal counsel. The warnings established in Miranda v. Arizona come from the Fifth Amendment’s protection against being forced to testify against yourself and the Sixth Amendment’s right to counsel. When you’re in custody and questioned, officers must tell you that you can stay silent and that you have the right to an attorney, with the reminder that if you can’t afford one, the state will provide one. These safeguards are specifically about not being compelled to speak and about having legal help during interrogation. The Fourth Amendment—which covers unreasonable searches and seizures—does not establish these rights. So the connection is to the Fifth and Sixth Amendments.