How an investigator prepare for an interview or interrogation
1) How does an investigator prepare for an interview or interrogation? Are there differences?
2) Find a state supreme court or state appeals case from your state in which a conviction of a defendant from a lower court was overturned due to improper police tactics during an interrogation. Discuss and properly list the website.
Q6
The internet can be a powerful ally when you are trying to figure out how to solve a problem.
When you select the link to Learning Material for the week of the class, you will see a section labeled Handy Helpers.
The first section in the Handy Helpers takes you to a page with links to videos, math sites, PowerPoints, cheat sheets and other materials that explain the topics covered in that section.
Interrogation:
- Purpose: To obtain a confession or admission of guilt from a suspect.
- Approach: More confrontational and accusatory, often using psychological techniques to elicit a confession.
- Techniques: Mirroring, minimizing, maximizing, and other interrogation tactics may be employed.
- Gather Information: Review the case file, evidence, and any prior statements from the individual.
- Develop a Plan: Outline the questions you want to ask and the information you hope to obtain.
- Consider the Individual: Be aware of the individual's background, personality, and potential vulnerabilities.
- Practice Active Listening: Develop your active listening skills to effectively understand the individual's responses.
- Be Familiar with Legal Guidelines: Understand the legal rights of the individual and ensure that your questioning complies with applicable laws and regulations.
- Visit Your State's Supreme Court Website: Most state supreme courts have online databases where you can search for cases by keyword, party names, or date.
- Use Legal Databases: Legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis offer comprehensive collections of court cases.
- Consult with a Legal Professional: A lawyer can assist you in finding relevant cases and interpreting the legal principles involved.
Q1: Preparing for an Interview or Interrogation
While the terms "interview" and "interrogation" are often used interchangeably, there are some key differences in their approach and purpose:
Interview:
- Purpose: To gather information and evidence from a witness or potential suspect.
- Approach: Generally more conversational and collaborative, aiming to build rapport and elicit information voluntarily.
- Techniques: Open-ended questions, active listening, and empathy are often used.