Authorities classify someone as a suspect when they believe that person may have been involved in illegal activity. The classification is usually based on specific information obtained during a criminal investigation.
In the United States, all suspects can exercise specific rights during questioning, as long as it occurs while they are in custody.
The rights afforded to a suspect who is being interrogated while in custody include:
Furthermore, in accordance with Miranda v. Arizona, suspects who have been taken into custody for questioning must be advised of these rights. They must also be informed that the information they provide during questioning can be used against them.