What must be done before questioning a suspect after an arrest?

Before questioning a suspect after an arrest, it is essential to issue Miranda rights. This legal requirement ensures that the suspect is informed of their rights to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning. The purpose of Miranda warnings is to protect a suspect's Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and ensure that any statements made during interrogation are voluntary and informed. If these rights are not communicated, any evidence obtained through questioning could potentially be deemed inadmissible in court.

In contrast, while calling a lawyer is important for the suspect's legal representation, it is not a prerequisite for the questioning process itself. Providing a choice of interpreters may be necessary for suspects who do not speak the language of the officers, but it does not replace the need for issuing Miranda rights. Conducting a psychological evaluation may be relevant in some cases but is also not a requirement before questioning a suspect. The critical step is making sure the suspect understands their rights first and foremost.