A suspect asserts innocence and requests a lawyer during questioning; what is the ethical approach?

• A. Continue questioning to elicit a confession.
• B. Offer a deal to waive rights in exchange for cooperation.
• C. Respect the right to counsel; cease questioning until counsel is present; avoid threats or coercion.
• D. Ignore the request and proceed as if no counsel is present.

Answer: (C)

When a suspect asserts innocence and requests a lawyer during questioning, the ethical approach is to respect the right to counsel and pause all questioning until counsel is present. Do not threaten, coerce, or offer deals to waive rights in exchange for cooperation. This aligns with constitutional protections (the right to an attorney and protection against self-incrimination) and helps ensure any statements are voluntary and admissible. If questioning resumes, it should only occur after the suspect has had the opportunity to consult with counsel or after they knowingly and voluntarily waive their rights with counsel present.