Utah Special Function Officer (SFO) Practice Exam

What did Chambers v. Florida (1940) indicate about confessions?

1. They are always admissible if signed

2. They are inadmissible if obtained through intimidation or coercion

3. They must be obtained in front of a judge

4. They can be negotiated

The correct answer is: They are inadmissible if obtained through intimidation or coercion

Chambers v. Florida (1940) is a significant case in the understanding of confessions within the legal system, particularly in regards to the protection against self-incrimination and the necessity of fair legal processes. The ruling highlighted that confessions extracted through intimidation or coercion are not only unethical but also inadmissible in a court of law. This principle ensures that any confession must be given voluntarily, without any undue pressure or threats from law enforcement officers. The case established important precedents regarding the rights of individuals during police interrogations, emphasizing that coercive techniques can lead to unreliable confessions, which compromise the integrity of the judicial process. The focus on the voluntariness of confessions is a critical aspect of safeguarding civil rights and ensuring justice.