Whether you are an adult citizen or a non-citizen, you have certain rights if you are arrested.

Before the law enforcement officer questions you, he or she must tell you that:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• Anything you say may be used against you.
• You have the right to have a lawyer present while you are questioned.
• If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you.

These are your "Miranda" rights, guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. If you are not given these warnings, your lawyer can ask that any statements you made to the police not be used against you in court. But this does not necessarily mean that your case will be dismissed. This does not apply if you volunteer information without being questioned by the police.