Being an arguido: formal suspect has limits on freedom but rights not extended to witnesses

BECOMING an arguido or formal suspect provides certain legal rights under Portuguese law.

An arguido is a person of interest to the inquiry.

It provides certain legal protection that is not extended to a witness, including the right to remain silent during questioning and the right to legal representation.

It is not uncommon for people caught up in criminal investigations to declare themselves arguidos in order to receive this protection.

A person can ask for the status if they feel the line of questioning is implying that they are a suspect.

Previously the only formal suspect in the McCann case was British expatriate and former property developer Robert Murat, 33. He was named under Portuguese law as having arguido status on May 15, but was not charged or even formally arrested.

Once someone is a formal suspect they can be arrested, but only if there is sufficient evidence. Becoming an arguido can also limit freedom of movement and force the suspect to be in regular contact with police.