What typically triggers the need for a Miranda warning?

The need for a Miranda warning is typically triggered once a suspect is in custody and about to be interrogated. This requirement stems from the U.S. Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona, which established that individuals in custody must be informed of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.

This warning is crucial because it ensures that any statements made by the suspect during interrogation are made voluntarily and with an understanding of their legal rights. Being in custody implies that the suspect's freedom of movement is significantly restrained, and this often includes scenarios where they are not free to leave. If interrogation follows this custody situation without a Miranda warning, any statements obtained could potentially be deemed inadmissible in court due to coercion concerns.

The other contexts mentioned do not align with the legal requirements for issuing the Miranda warning. For instance, before an arrest or during a traffic citation, a person is not necessarily in custody in the same legal sense that would require the warning.