Opinion ID: 2630631
Heading Depth: 5
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Appropriate Test to Determine Voluntariness

Text: ¶ 56 The appropriate standard to determine voluntariness is the totality of the circumstances test, and the burden of proof is by preponderance of the evidence. United States v. Matlock, 415 U.S. 164, 177 n. 14, 94 S.Ct. 988, 39 L.Ed.2d 242 (1974). Under the totality of the circumstances test, a court should carefully scrutinize both the details of the detention, and the characteristics of the defendant. Schneckloth, 412 U.S. at 226, 248, 93 S.Ct. 2041. ¶ 57 The totality of the circumstances must show consent was given without duress or coercion. Id. at 248, 93 S.Ct. 2041; United States v. Zubia-Melendez, 263 F.3d 1155, 1162 (10th Cir.2001) (citing United States v. McRae, 81 F.3d 1528, 1537 (10th Cir.1996)). In other words, a person's will cannot be overborne, nor may his capacity for self-determination [be] critically impaired. Schneckloth, 412 U.S. at 225, 93 S.Ct. 2041 (citation omitted); United States v. Melendez-Garcia, 28 F.3d 1046, 1053 n. 4 (10th Cir.1994). With respect to a defendant, evidence of minimal schooling, low intelligence, and the lack of any effective warnings [about] his rights should be considered. Schneckloth, 412 U.S. at 248, 93 S.Ct. 2041. Further, we have stated that [f]actors which may show a lack of duress or coercion include: 1) the absence of a claim of authority to search by the officers; 2) the absence of an exhibition of force by the officers; 3) a mere request to search; 4) cooperation by the owner of the vehicle; and 5) the absence of deception or trick on the part of the officer. State v. Whittenback, 621 P.2d 103, 106 (Utah 1980).