This documentary explores the landmark Supreme Court decision Miranda v. Arizona that said criminal suspects, at the time of their arrest but before any interrogation, must be told of their Fifth Amendment protection against self-incrimination and Sixth Amendment right to an attorney. The decision led to the familiar Miranda warning that begins “You have the right to remain silent…”
Miranda v. Arizona (1966)
This case summary provides teachers with everything they need to teach about Miranda v. Arizona (1966). It contains background information in the form of summaries and important vocabulary at three different reading levels, as well a review of relevant legal concepts, diagram of how the case moved through the court system, and summary of the decision. This resource also includes ten classroom-ready activities that teach about the case using interactive methods.
Missouri v. Seibert (2004)
Does an officer’s questioning prior to the recitation of a Miranda warning undermine the protection offered by the Fifth Amendment? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2004.
Dickerson v. United States (2000)
Can a voluntary statement made during an interrogation be used as evidence if the statement was made in violation of Miranda warnings? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2000.
Florida v. Powell (2010)
Does the failure to provide explicit advice of one’s right to have a lawyer present during questioning invalidate Miranda warnings? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2010.
JDB v. North Carolina (2011)
Should the age of a juvenile suspect be considered when deciding whether he is in custody and entitled to Miranda warnings? This case summary shows how the Supreme Court answered that question in 2011.
Our Rights
The book Our Rights, written by David J. Bodenhamer, uses historical case studies to explore the rights in the Constitution. Supreme Court cases are used to demonstrate how a right received its modern interpretation, how the right applies today, and how courts and other interpreters seek to balance this right with important societal concerns such as public safety. The complete book or individual chapters can be downloaded.
The Pursuit of Justice
The Pursuit of Justice book, written by Kermit L. Hall and John J. Patrick, analyzes 30 Supreme Court cases chosen by a group of Supreme Court justices and leading civics educators as the most important for American citizens to understand. An additional 100 significant cases included in state history and civics standards are summarized. The complete book or individuals chapters can be downloaded.