What does it mean for a suspect to "waive" their rights?

To waive rights means that a suspect is giving up or relinquishing their legal rights, typically in the context of interacting with law enforcement. Specifically, when a suspect waives their rights, they are affirmatively agreeing to speak with law enforcement despite having the option to remain silent or to seek legal counsel. This act of waiver usually follows a notification of their rights, such as those outlined in Miranda warnings.

For example, if a suspect is informed about their right to remain silent and their right to have an attorney present during questioning, choosing to waive those rights and engage in conversation with the police indicates their intention to cooperate. This decision can have significant legal implications, as any statements made can be used in court, reinforcing the need for suspects to understand the consequences of waiving their rights before proceeding with discussions with investigators.