Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

It's usually right that police want what's best for you and your community, but it's a good idea to know your rights. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our liberty and, in some instances, 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 don't know that they aren't required by law to answer all an officer's questions, even if they were driving. Even if you are required to show your ID, you usually don't have to say much more about anything your plans or what you've been drinking, in the case of a potential DUI arrest. Federal law protects all people and gives specific protections that allow you to remain silent or give only some information. While it's usually best to work nicely with officers, it's important to know that you have a right to not incriminate yourself.

Even good guys need lawyers. Whether you have been a drunk driver and broken other laws or not, you should be protected. State and federal laws change regularly, and different laws apply in different areas. It's also worth saying that laws regularly change during legislative sessions, and courts of law are constantly making new rulings.

Usually, Talking is OK

It's good to know your rights, but you should know that usually the police aren't out to hurt you. Most are good men and women, and causing an issue is most likely to hurt you in the end. You probably don't want to make police officers feel like you hate them. This is an additional reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyer at marijuana and cannabis crimes Bridgeport, TX on your defense team, especially during questioning. Your legal criminal defense counsel can advise you on when you should volunteer information and when to keep quiet.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

Unless cops have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your car or home without permission. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence everywhere, or give your OK a search, any data collected could be used against you in court. It's probably good to say no to searches verbally and let your attorney handle it.