A ______________________ utterance is when a suspect admits to committing a crime without being questioned or solicited for a statement.

A spontaneous utterance refers to a statement made by a suspect acknowledging their involvement in a crime without any prompting or questioning by law enforcement. This type of declaration is often considered more credible or reliable because it emerges naturally from the individual’s own volition, suggesting that they are not under duress or influenced by interrogation tactics.

The concept of spontaneity is crucial in legal contexts, as it can impact the admissibility of evidence in court. Spontaneous utterances can be seen as excited declarations, often made in high-stress situations where the individual feels compelled to reveal information without hesitation. The absence of questioning underscores that the statement was made entirely at the suspect's own initiative. This distinguishes spontaneous utterances from statements that are coerced, involuntary, or made in response to direct interrogation, which can raise concerns about the individual's free will and the validity of their confession.