What is the process of lineups, interrogations, and confessions in criminal proceedings?

Lineups, interrogations, and confessions are all important aspects of criminal proceedings in California. Generally speaking, the process begins with a lineup. This typically involves the suspect being brought into a room with a police officer and several other people (the “fillers”) who look similar to him or her. The officer then informs the witnesses that the suspect may or may not be the perpetrator of the crime in question. The witnesses are then asked to identify the suspect as the perpetrator or to indicate that the suspect is not the perpetrator. Once a lineup is conducted, interrogations follow. During an interrogation, police officers typically ask the suspect a series of questions in an attempt to determine if the suspect is guilty of the crime. The suspect must answer the questions truthfully, otherwise they could face criminal charges. After an interrogation, the police officers may ask the suspect to make a statement or confession. If a suspect makes a confession, it becomes part of the criminal record and can be used as evidence in court. However, if a suspect confesses due to coercion by the police officers, then the confession can be rendered inadmissible in court. In order to protect a suspect’s right to due process, the police officers must inform the suspect of the Miranda Warning before interrogating or questioning them. This warning states that the suspect has the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and that anything they say can and will be used against them in a court of law.

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What is the process of lineups, interrogations, and confessions in criminal proceedings?

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