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

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many people are unaware that they aren't required by law to answer all an officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. Federal law applies to all of us and gives special protections that let you remain silent or give only a little information. While it's usually wise to work nicely with cops, it's important to be aware that you have rights.

Even the best citizens need lawyers. Whether or not you've done anything blameworthy such as driving drunk or recklessly, you should get advice on legal protections. Legal matters change on a regular basis, and different laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. This is especially true since laws occasionally change and court cases are decided often that also make a difference.

Usually, Talking is OK

While there are instances when you should be quiet in the face of legal action, remember that most cops really want to help and would rather not take you in. You don't want to make police officers feel like you're against them. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert lawyer at marijuana and cannabis crimes Bridgeport, TX on your defense team, especially after being arrested. An expert criminal defense lawyer can help you know when to talk.

Question Permission to Search

You don't have to give permission to search your home or automobile. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been perpetrated. It's less simple in practice, though. It's probably good to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.