Criminal Defense and Talking to Police

No one likes run-ins with police, for any sort of criminal defense or questioning, including DUI. You have responsibilities and rights, all the time. It's always useful to get an attorney on your side.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many individuals are not aware that they don't have to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. The law protects all citizens and gives assurances that let you remain silent or give only a little information. While it's usually wise to be cooperative with officers, it's important to understand that you have rights.

Even though it's good to have a thorough understanding of your rights, you should get a criminal defense attorney who knows all the implications of the law if you want to protect yourself reasonably. State and federal laws change often, and disparate laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. It's also worth saying that laws occasionally get changed during deliberative sessions, and courts are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

There are Times to Talk

It's best to know your rights, but you should know that usually the officers aren't out to get you. Most are good men and women, and causing an issue is most likely to trouble you in the end. You probably don't want to make police officers feel like you're against them. This is yet one more reason to get an attorney such as the expert counsel at Possession of a controlled substance salt lake city on your team, especially for interrogation. Your legal criminal defense counsel can advise you on when you should volunteer information and when staying quiet is a better idea.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

You don't have to give permission to search your house or car. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence everywhere, or submit to a search, any knowledge found could be used against you in court. It's usually the best choice to deny permission.