Duckworth v. Eagan

492 U.S. 195 (1989)

Facts

Respondent (D) contacted the police about the naked body of a dead woman lying on a Lake Michigan beach. When the police investigated with D, they found a live woman who accused D of stabbing her. D told police a story about being abducted by several men in a van. Police then questioned D and read a waiver form that stated that if he could not afford an attorney that one would be appointed for him if and when he went to trial, but the form also stated that he could have an attorney present during questioning. D was placed in lockup after denying involvement with stabbing the woman and was read his rights again before questioning. This Miranda warning was essentially correct, and D read it and signed it, but the warning only stated that he could stop and request an attorney during questioning if he refused to answer questions. D then confessed to stabbing the woman. D lead police to the location of the knife used and several items of clothing. During trial the state admitted the confession into evidence. D objected. D was found guilty of attempted murder but acquitted of rape. D appealed. The court of appeals overturned.