Opinion ID: 2521542
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Significance of Section 19-2-511

Text: The General Assembly enacted section 19-2-511 [1] in order both to codify the Miranda requirements detailed above and to extend those protections to juveniles. In re J.C., 844 P.2d at 1188. However, under section 19-2-511(1), the General Assembly affords juveniles in the custody of law enforcement additional protections. The statute requires the presence of a responsible adult during the custodial interrogation of a juvenile. If a responsible adult is not present during a custodial interrogation, the statute excludes statements made by the juvenile as a result of the custodial interrogation. Id.; see also People v. Maes, 194 Colo. 235, 237, 571 P.2d 305, 306 (1977) (noting that the clear purpose of the statute is to afford a special protection to a juvenile who is in police custody because of alleged criminal acts). Specifically, section 19-2-511(1) provides that no statements of a juvenile made as a result of a custodial interrogation shall be admissible in evidence unless a responsible adult is present. [2] The statute also requires that when a juvenile is in custody, the juvenile and a responsible adult must be made aware of the juvenile's right against self incrimination and right to counsel during an interrogation. In re J.C., 844 P.2d at 1188. C.