What is meant by "Miranda warning"?

The "Miranda warning" refers specifically to the legal requirement for law enforcement to inform a person of their rights before they are subjected to interrogation while in custody. This is a crucial aspect of the Miranda v. Arizona Supreme Court decision, which established that individuals have the right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning.

When a person is not free to leave—meaning they are effectively in custody—and law enforcement intends to ask questions that could lead to self-incrimination, they must state these rights explicitly to ensure that the individual understands their protections under the Fifth Amendment. This warning is designed to protect the suspect’s right against self-incrimination and ensure that any statements made during interrogation are done so voluntarily and with full awareness of their rights.

In contrast, other choices such as a warning given during a traffic stop, a summons for court appearance, or a statement of charges against a suspect do not encompass the essence and legal implications of the Miranda warning, which is specifically focused on the rights of individuals facing interrogation after being taken into custody.