Discuss the aspects (i.e., history, constitutional issues) of the Fare v. Michael C. and California v. Prysock cases. Do you agree or disagree with the Courts holdings? Explain

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• The waiver of Miranda rights by a juvenile is one of the most controversial legal issues addressed in the state courts.
• It has also been the subject of federal constitutional review. In two cases, Fare v. Michael C. and California v. Prysock, the Supreme Court has attempted to clarify children's rights when they are interrogated by the police.
• In Fare v. Michael C., the Court ruled that a child's asking to speak to his probation officer was not the equivalent of asking for an attorney; consequently, statements he made to the police absent legal counsel were admissible in court.
• In California v. Prysock, the Court was asked to rule on the adequacy of a Miranda warning given to Randall Prysock, a youthful murder suspect. After reviewing the taped exchange between the police interrogator and the boy, the Court upheld Prysock's conviction when it ruled that even though the Miranda warning was given in slightly different language and out of exact context, its meaning was easily understandable, even to a juvenile.
• Taken together, Fare and Prysock make it seem indisputable that juveniles are at least entitled to receive the same Miranda rights as adults. Miranda v. Arizona is a historic decision that continues to protect the rights of all suspects placed in custody.
• Student views will vary.