Criminal Defense and Talking to Police

No one likes talking to police, whether they are being pulled over as a DUI suspect or being questioned as a witness in a criminal defense case. You have both rights and responsibilities, regardless of the crime being investigated. It's always useful to get a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many individuals are not aware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they are behind the wheel. Even if you are required to show your ID, you usually don't have to say much more about anything such as your recent whereabouts and activities or what you've been drinking, in the case of a potential DUI arrest. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and affirmed by the courts. You have a right not to incriminate yourself, and you have a right to walk away if you aren't under arrest.

Imagine a scene where cops suspect you may have committed a crime, but you are innocent. This is just one time where you should to hire a qualified, competent attorney. Legal matters change often, and differing laws apply jurisdictionally. This is notably true since laws often change and court cases are decided often that change the interpretation of those laws.

Usually, Talking is OK

It's best to know your rights, but you should think about the fact that usually the police aren't out to harm you. Most are decent people, and causing disorder is most likely to hurt you in the end. You don't want to make cops feel like you hate them. This is another reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyer at criminal defense law firm Vancouver WA on your defense team, especially for interrogation. A good criminal defense lawyer can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless cops have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your house or your car without permission. Probable cause, defined in a simple way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's less simple in practice, though. It's usually the best choice to deny permission.