What legal principle states you cannot use violence or threats to obtain a confession from a suspect?

The principle that emphasizes the prohibition of using violence or threats to obtain a confession from a suspect is encapsulated in the free and voluntary rule. This legal standard asserts that for a confession to be admissible in court, it must be given freely and voluntarily, without coercion, intimidation, or undue pressure from law enforcement. This rule protects individuals from being compelled to confess to crimes under duress, which is fundamental to ensuring that confessions are reliable and just.

The free and voluntary rule is rooted in the principle of safeguarding individual rights during the interrogation process. It ensures that any statements made by a suspect reflect their genuine, uncoerced choice rather than a response to fear or violence. The integrity of the judicial process relies on the ethical treatment of suspects and the legitimacy of their confessions.

While the due process clause is indeed related to the broader rights of individuals within the legal system, it encompasses more than just the admissibility of confessions. The right to counsel refers specifically to a suspect's entitlement to legal representation, which is also crucial during interrogations but does not directly address the issue of coercion in confessions. The Miranda warning is related to informing suspects of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an