Do you need to read Miranda Rights to a witness?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only if the witness is under investigation
• D. Only for juveniles

Answer: (B)

Miranda warnings protect a person’s right to not incriminate themselves during police questioning when they’re in custody. A witness who is not in custody and not being questioned about their own involvement isn’t entitled to those warnings. The requirement kicks in only when the person is in custody and police are interrogating them to obtain incriminating information. If a witness later becomes a suspect and is questioned while in custody, then the warnings must be given. Age doesn’t change this rule; juveniles receive the same protections when custody and interrogation occur, but there’s no separate requirement for witnesses who aren’t in custody. So, in typical witness situations, you do not need to read Miranda rights.