Criminal Defense and Talking to Police

No one likes run-ins with police, whether for DUI or questions in a criminals case of any kind. You have both rights and responsibilities, regardless of the crime being investigated. It's important to get an attorney on your side.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many citizens don't know 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 don't always have to show ID either. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and have been verified by the U.S. Supreme Court. While it's usually a good plan to cooperate with police, it's important to know that you have legal protections in your favor.

Even though it's important to have a basic understanding of your rights, you need a legal advocate who knows all the implications of the law so you can protect yourself in the best way. Laws change regularly, and disparate laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. It's also worth saying that laws regularly get adjusted during lawmaker meetings, and courts are constantly making further changes.

There are Times to Talk

While there are times for silence in the legal matters, remember how most police really want to help and would rather not take you out. Refusing to talk could cause trouble and endanger the neighborhood. This is another instance when you should hire the best criminal defense attorney, such as aggravated assault attorneys plano tx is wise. Your legal criminal defense counsel can advise you on when you should speak up with information and when staying quiet is a better idea.

Question Permission to Search

Unless police officers have probable cause that you you are a criminal, they can't search your car or home without permission. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's less simple in practice, though. It's probably best to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.