It's usually right that cops want what's best in most situations, but it's wise to be familiar with your rights. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our liberty and, occasionally, 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.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many individuals are not aware that they don't have to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and affirmed by the courts. You have a right not to incriminate yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't under arrest.

Even law-abiding people need lawyers. Whether you have committed a DUI and pushed the limits of other laws or not, you should get advice on legal protections. State and federal laws change on a regular basis, and differing laws apply jurisdictionally. It's also worth saying that laws regularly change during lawmaker meetings, and courts of law are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

Usually, Talking is OK

It's good to know your rights, but you should know that usually the cops 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 police officers feel like your enemies. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert lawyers at criminal defense law firm Vancouver WA on your side, especially after being arrested. A qualified criminal defense lawyer can help you know when to be quiet.

Question Permission to Search

going a step further than refusing to answer questions, you can deny permission for a cop to search your home or vehicle. 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 usually good to deny permission.