Silence and Confessions: The Suspect as the Source of Evidence

Silence and Confessions examines the treatment of suspects in interrogation and explores issues surrounding the right to silence. Employing a socio-legal approach, it draws from empirical research in the social sciences including social psychology to understand the challenges in obtaining reliable evidence and maintaining the integrity of the interrogation process.

Providing unique insights into the process of interrogation and the experiences of the suspect during interview, this book highlights the dangers facing vulnerable suspects and the problems of identifying and preventing false confessions. It approaches the topic of the right to silence broadly and includes in-depth discussion of the problems with confession evidence, critiquing the discouragement of suspects from exercising their right to silence.

Easton's examination of the relationship between the state and the suspect, the equality of arms principle and the problem of reconciling competing interests and principles in the criminal justice process will be essential reading for scholars in Criminology, Criminal Justice and Law, particularly those interested in evidence and law and society.