How can a defendant invoke their Miranda rights?

A defendant can invoke their Miranda rights by clearly indicating their desire to remain silent or by expressing the intention to have an attorney present during questioning. This right is rooted in the Fifth Amendment, which protects individuals from self-incrimination, and the Sixth Amendment, which guarantees the right to counsel.

When a defendant communicates their wish to exercise these rights, law enforcement is required to cease questioning until the defendant has been informed of and can exercise their rights appropriately. This ensures that the defendant's choice to remain silent or to consult an attorney is respected and upheld, safeguarding their legal protections.

While fleeing the scene might indicate a desire to avoid law enforcement, it does not represent a formal invocation of Miranda rights. Cooperation with law enforcement is generally not a method of invoking rights either; rather, it may lead to further questioning. Calling a lawyer during questioning typically does not stop the questioning unless the defendant specifically states that they wish to invoke their right to counsel before any further dialogue continues. Invoking Miranda rights must be articulated clearly and unambiguously to ensure the proper legal protections are enforced.