Even if police officers are helping you and are respectful, having to meet with them is rarely a positive experience. Whether your situation involves juvenile crimes, traffic or DUI and driving-while-intoxicated crimes or drug, sex and white collar, it's best to know your duties and rights. If you could be guilty of crimes or could be indicted, contact a local criminal defense attorney immediately.

Police Can Require Your ID Only if You're a Suspect

Many citizens don't know that they don't have to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they were driving. If they aren't driving, they may not have to show identification. The U.S. Constitution protects all people and gives specific protections that let you remain quiet or give only some information. While it's usually best to cooperate with police, it's important to be aware that you have rights.

Even good guys need attorneys. Whether you have been a drunk driver and violated other laws or have not, you should be protected. Legal matters change on a regular basis, and different laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. This is particularly true since laws often change and matters of law are decided often that change the interpretation of those laws.

Know When to Talk

While there are instances when you should be quiet in the face of legal action, remember how most police just want to help and would rather not take you in. Refusing to talk could cause trouble and endanger the neighborhood. This is another reason why hiring the best criminal defense attorney, such as personal injury lawyer falls church va is wise. Your legal criminal defense counsel can tell you when you should give information and when to shut your mouth.

Question Permission to Search

You don't have to give permission to search your home or vehicle. Probable cause, defined in a simple way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's more serious than that, though. It's probably good to say no to searches verbally and let the courts and your attorney sort it out later.