Prior to an interrogation, Miranda warnings must be read (absent an exception) if:

• A. The suspect believes that he/she is under arrest
• B. The suspect is suspected of a minor offense
• C. The interrogation occurs in a public place
• D. The suspect requests an attorney before questioning

Answer: (A)

Miranda warnings are required before interrogation when the person is in custody, meaning not free to leave, and is being questioned. If the suspect believes they are under arrest, a reasonable person would feel they’re not free to leave, so warnings must be given before questioning begins, unless an established exception applies. The other situations do not by themselves create custody: a minor offense or being in a public place does not automatically remove the freedom to walk away, and invoking the right to counsel typically pauses questioning rather than negating the need for warnings when custody exists.