When are Miranda warnings required?

Miranda warnings are required during custodial interrogation by police, which means they must be given when a suspect is in custody and subject to questioning that could elicit self-incriminating responses. The purpose of these warnings is to inform individuals of their rights, specifically the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, ensuring that any confession or statement made is truly voluntary and informed.

Custodial interrogation means that a suspect is not free to leave, and any questioning in this context can have significant implications for their legal rights. Therefore, if a person is in this situation and the police intend to question them, Miranda warnings must be administered prior to any interrogation to comply with the Fifth Amendment's protection against self-incrimination.

The other contexts presented do not trigger the requirement for Miranda warnings in the same way. For instance, questioning outside of a custodial environment does not necessitate these warnings. Similarly, a suspect's awareness of charges or asking for an attorney during an interrogation does not negate the need for the warnings if they are already engaged in custodial interrogation. Thus, the correct answer appropriately identifies the specific conditions under which Miranda warnings must be provided.