Criminal Defense and Talking to Police

It's usually right that police want what's best for everyone, but it's a good idea to be familiar with your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have the ultimate power - to take away our freedom and, sometimes, even our lives. If you are involved in a a criminal defense case or investigated for driving drunk, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many citizens don't know that they aren't required by law to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you usually don't have to say much more about anything like where you've been or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a DUI investigation. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and affirmed by the courts. You have a right not to testify or speak against yourself, and you can almost always just leave if you aren't under arrest.

Even the best citizens need attorneys. Whether you have broken the law or not, you should be protected. State and federal laws change on a regular basis, and disparate laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. This is especially true since laws occasionally change and court cases are decided often that make changes too.

There are Times to Talk

While there are times for silence in the working with the police, remember that most officers only want to keep the peace and would rather not take you out. You probably don't want to make cops feel like you're against them. This is yet one more reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyer at affordable family law attorney salt lake city, UT on your team, especially during questioning. Your legal criminal defense counsel can inform you regarding when you should give information and when to keep quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

In addition to refusing to speak, you can deny permission for an officer to rummage through your house or car. Probable cause, defined simply, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's more complicated in reality, though. It's usually the best choice to deny permission.