This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

Mathiason (D) was tried for first-degree burglary in which his confession was a critical element of the State's case. D was called into the police headquarters as a suspect in a burglary. The officer and D met in the hall, he was taken into an office with the door closed, told that he was not under arrest, and falsely told that his fingerprints were found at the scene of the crime. D sat for a few minutes and then confessed. D was then advised of his Miranda rights and then made a taped confession. D was not arrested but allowed to leave, and the case was referred to the DA. D was convicted and appealed. The Supreme Court of Oregon reversed; the interrogation took place in a coercive environment.

The legal issues presented in this case will be displayed here.

The court's holding and decision will be displayed here.

Legal analysis from Dean's Law Dictionary will be displayed here.