Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

No one likes dealing with the cops, whether for DUI or questions in a criminals case of any kind. You have responsibilities and rights, all the time. It's important to get a lawyer on your side.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many individuals are unaware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they were driving. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. 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 being detained or arrested.

Imagine a scenario where police believe you have committed a crime, but in fact you are innocent. This is just one time where you ought to consider to be advised by a top-tier lawyer. Legal matters change on a regular basis, and differing laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. It's also worth saying that laws often change during lawmaker meetings, and courts are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

Usually, Talking is OK

It's good to know your rights, but you should realize that usually the officers aren't out to hurt you. Most are decent people, and causing trouble is most likely to harm you in the end. Refusing to work with the cops could cause be problematic. This is another explanation for why it's best to hire the best criminal defense attorney, such as sex crime lawyer salt lake city ut is wise. Your legal criminal defense counsel can advise you on when you should volunteer information and when to shut your mouth.

Question Permission to Search

Unless police officers have probable cause that you have committed a crime, they can't search your car or home without permission. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence everywhere, or submit to a search, any knowledge gathered could be used against you in court. It's usually good to deny permission.