Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

No one likes talking to police, whether they are being pulled over as a DUI suspect or just answering questions. You have both rights and responsibilities, all the time. It's almost always valuable to get a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side.

Police Can't Always Require ID

Many people don't know that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you usually don't have to say much more about anything such as your recent whereabouts and activities or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a drunken driving stop. Federal law protects all citizens and gives specific protections that provide you the option to remain quiet or give only a little information. You have a right not to give testimony against yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't under arrest.

Imagine a scene where police suspect you may have run afoul of the law, but you aren't guilty. This is just one situation where you should to get help from a qualified, competent attorney. Legal matters change regularly, and disparate laws apply in different areas. This is especially true since laws occasionally change and matters of law are decided often that change the interpretation of those laws.

Sometimes You Should Talk to Police

While there are times to stay mute in the working with the police, remember the truth that most police really want to help and would rather not take you out. You shouldn't want to make police officers feel like you're against them. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert counsel at criminal attorney Hillsboro, OR on your side, especially for interrogation. An expert criminal defense lawyer can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

Unless police officers have probable cause that you you are a criminal, they can't search your home or vehicle without permission. However, if you start talking, leave evidence everywhere, or grant permission for a search, any data collected could be used against you in court. It's usually best to not give permission.