No one likes run-ins with police, whether they are being pulled over for DUI or being questioned as a witness in a criminal defense case. You have responsibilities and rights, regardless of the crime being investigated. It's important to get a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many people are not aware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they are behind the wheel. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and have been verified by the U.S. Supreme Court. While it's usually wise to work nicely with cops, it's important to know that you have rights.

Even law-abiding people need criminal defense lawyers. Whether or not you've done anything wrong such as driving drunk or speeding, you should take advantage of the protections available to you. State and federal laws change regularly, and differing laws apply in different areas. It's also worth saying that laws often get changed during legislative sessions, and courts of law are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

Usually, Talking is OK

While there are times for silence in the face of legal action, remember the truth that most cops really want to help and would rather not take you in. You shouldn't want to make police officers feel like your enemies. This is an additional reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyers at Criminal defense attorney Provo UT on your defense team, especially for interrogation. Your attorney can tell you when you should volunteer information and when to shut your mouth.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless police officers have probable cause that you have committed a crime, they can't search your house or your car without permission. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been perpetrated. It's more complicated in reality, though. It's usually best to not give permission.