Criminal Defense and Talking to Police

It's a good idea to trust that police want what's best in most situations, but it's wise to be familiar with your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our freedom and, in some instances, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for drunken driving, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many individuals are unaware that they aren't required by law to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they were driving. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you generally don't have to answer other questions cops might have about anything like where you've been or what you've been drinking, in the case of a drunken driving stop. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and affirmed by the courts. You have a right not to give testimony against yourself, and you have a right to walk away if you aren't under arrest.

Even good guys need criminal defense lawyers. Whether you have broken the law or not, you should get advice on legal protections. Knowing all the laws and being familiar with the multiple situations in which they apply should be left up to good laywers. Find someone whose main priority it is to be aware of these things for the best possible outcome to any criminal defense or DUI case.

Usually, Talking is OK

It's best to know your rights, but you should realize that usually the police aren't out to harm you. Most are good people like you, and causing disorder is most likely to hurt you in the end. You shouldn't want to make the police feel like you're against them. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert counsel at probate attorney 20901 on your side, especially after being arrested. Your attorney can inform you regarding when you should give information and when to shut your mouth.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless police officers have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your car or home without permission. However, if you start talking, leave evidence of criminal activity in plain sight, or grant permission for a search, any data gathered could be used against you in trial. It's probably smart to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.