No one likes run-ins with police, whether they are being pulled over for drunken driving or just plain old interrogation. You have responsibilities and rights, regardless of the crime being investigated. It's almost always valuable to get an attorney on your side.

Police Can't Always Require ID

Many citizens don't know that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they were driving. Even if you must show identification, you may not have to say more about anything such as your recent whereabouts and activities or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a drunken driving stop. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and seconded by Supreme Court justices. 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 though it's best to have a thorough education about your rights, you need a lawyer who understands all the small stuff of the law so you can protect yourself reasonably. State and federal laws change on a regular basis, and different laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. It's also true that laws occasionally get changed during lawmaker meetings, and many courts are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

Sometimes You Should Talk to Police

It's good to know your rights, but you should know that usually the police aren't out to harm you. Most are decent people, and causing trouble is most likely to hurt you in the end. You don't want to make the police feel like you hate them. This is another reason to get an attorney such as the expert counsel at criminal defense lawyer mill plain wa on your team, especially during questioning. A good criminal defense lawyer can help you know when to talk.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

In addition to refusing to talk, you can deny permission for a cop to rummage through your car or automobile. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence of criminal activity in plain sight, or submit to a search, any information collected could be used against you in court. It's usually the best choice to deny permission.