Explain the Confession in a Justice Context

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Examining the way confessions are obtained through interrogation is an appropriate endeavor for criminal justice interested scholars. We now know that false confessions do occur, even without police intervention. We know that despite the well-intentioned Miranda warnings, false confessions do occur. Some assert that Miranda has been rendered meaningless through subsequent court action. Others suggest that Miranda warnings are not well understood by certain populations, particularly those who are vulnerable due to age or mental disorder. False confessions lead to miscarriages of justice and are a significant factor in false convictions.
A third critical component contributing to false confessions are lengthy interrogations. The suggested period for a confession is four hours. Studies have confirmed that interrogations where false confessions were confirmed typically were conducted over 16 hours. The purpose of laws restricting interrogation practices is to protect the suspect, whether that individual is Innocent or guilty. We also know that confessions are an important aspect of criminal justice evidence. There are no shortcuts or magic words to induce a confession. It takes hard work and self-control. The confession is only part of the investigation process, however, and should never by itself be the basis for a prosecution.
It is not surprising that investigative interviewers use different approaches which are crime-specific. Understanding human behaviors and reasoning why people commit crime are valuable insights for criminal investigators. Interrogator confidence in conducting proper, legal, and productive interrogations really does involve a vast amount of knowledge and education. Enhanced professionalism translates into the reduced possibility of false confessions; use of the appropriate techniques is the hallmark of a proper interrogation.