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

In criminal proceedings in Virginia, lineups, interrogations, and confessions play a significant role in the investigation and conclusion of a criminal case. A lineup is a process of identification when a witness or alleged victim of a crime identifies a suspect. It is often conducted as a ‘showup’ when the witness or victim is asked to identify the suspect from a group of people. Lineups generally occur soon after a crime has been committed. Interrogations are a type of questioning used by law enforcement officers to gain information and evidence from suspects. A suspect must be read their Miranda rights, which allows them to remain silent, before being questioned. During the interrogation, officers can ask certain types of questions, but they cannot pressure suspects into making incriminating statements. Finally, a confession of guilt is a statement made in which a suspect admits to being involved in a crime or acknowledges they are responsible for the offence. This confession can be used as evidence in court. In Virginia, a suspect can only make a confession if they have been read their Miranda rights and have voluntarily waived them. Any confession made without the suspect waiving their Miranda rights are considered inadmissible in court.

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

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