It's wise to believe that cops want what's best in most situations, but it's also important to be familiar with your rights. Police have the ultimate power - to take away our liberty 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.

Police Can't Always Require ID

Many individuals are not aware that they don't have to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. Even if you must show identification, you generally don't have to answer other questions police might have about anything like where you've been or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a DUI investigation. The U.S. Constitution applies to all of us and gives special protections that let you remain silent or give only some information. While it's usually best to be cooperative with police, it's important to be aware that you have legal protections in your favor.

Even though it's best to have a solid education about your rights, you should hire a lawyer who knows all the implications of the law so you're able to protect yourself fully. Laws change often, and disparate laws apply in different areas. Find someone whose full-time job it is to keep up on these things for the best possible outcome to any crime, even a DUI.

There are Times to Talk

It's good to know your rights, but you should think about the fact that usually the police aren't out to harm you. Most are good people like you, and causing trouble is most likely to harm you in the end. You probably don't want to make police officers feel like you hate them. This is another reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyers at auto accident lawyer Marietta GA on your side, especially after being arrested. A good criminal defense lawyer can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

Unless police officers have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your car or home without permission. Probable cause, defined simply, is a reasonable belief that a crime is in progress. It's more complicated in reality, though. It's probably best to always refuse searches verbally and then get out of the way.

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