Miranda v. Arizona Timeline

Miranda's Arrest

Mar 13, 1963

Ernesto Miranda was arrested for rape and kidnapping. He already had an extensive criminal record, but this arrest would completely change American justice.

First Trial

Jun 12, 1963

At his first trial, Miranda was represented by public defender Alvin Moore. The prosecuting attorney was Deputy County Attorney Laurence Turoff. The case was presented by Judge Yale McFate. Miranda was convicted of rape and kidnapping and sentenced to 20-30 years in prison. His confession was instrumental in his conviction.

Writ of Certiorari

Jun 13, 1965

After spending two years in a maximum security prison, Miranda felt he was wrongly convicted. He filed a writ of certiorari, which is a request for review by the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Case Begins

Feb 28, 1966

The case of Miranda v. Arizona begun on this day. He was represented by John Flynn and his team who worked for the American Civil Liberties Union. He was opposed by Gary Nelson, the representative for the people of the state of Arizona.

Supreme Court Case Arguments End

Mar 1, 1966

On March 1st, 1966 the oral arguments for the case of Miranda v. Arizona ended. From then on, it was up to the Supreme Court justices to decide the verdict.

The Decision is Made

Jun 13, 1966

On June 13th, 1966, Chief Justice Earl Warren released the decision of Miranda v. Arizona. He wrote that "the person in custody must, prior to interrogation, be clearly informed that he has the right to remain silent, and that anything he says will be used against him in court; he must be clearly informed that he has the right to consult with a lawyer and to have the lawyer with him during interrogation, and that, if he is indigent, a lawyer will be appointed to represent him."