What essential right must be ensured according to the Miranda ruling?

The Miranda ruling, established by the Supreme Court in Miranda v. Arizona (1966), emphasizes the necessity of certain rights for individuals in police custody. Specifically, it established that individuals must be informed of their rights prior to any interrogation, including the right to remain silent and the right to consult with an attorney. This ruling aims to protect a suspect's Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and ensures that they are aware of their legal rights, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their interactions with law enforcement.

By requiring that individuals understand they can choose not to speak or answer questions without an attorney present, the Miranda ruling is a crucial safeguard against coercive interrogations. This protection helps maintain fairness and justice in the judicial process, ensuring that individuals are not compelled to provide information that could potentially incriminate themselves.