What to do During a DUI Stop

It's a good idea to trust that police want what's best in most situations, but it's also important to be familiar with your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our liberty and, occasionally, even our lives. If you are involved in a a criminal defense case or investigated for a DUI or another crime, make sure you are protected by an attorney.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many individuals are not aware that they aren't required by law to answer all police questions, even if they have been pulled over. 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. You have a right not to testify or speak against yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't being officially detained.

Even good guys need attorneys. Whether you have pushed the limits of the law or not, you should take advantage of the protections available to you. Legal matters change often, and different laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. Find someone whose main priority it is to know these things for your best chances in any DUI or criminal defense case.

Sometimes You Should Talk to Police

It's good to know your rights, but you should know that usually the police aren't out to hurt you. Most are decent people, and causing trouble is most likely to hurt you in the end. You don't want to make the police feel like your enemies. This is an additional reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyers at Dui defense attorneys Utah County, UT on your team, especially for interrogation. Your lawyer can inform you regarding when you should speak up with information and when staying quiet is a better idea.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

In addition to refusing to answer questions, you can deny permission for a cop to look through your car or automobile. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence everywhere, or grant permission for a search, any knowledge gathered could be used against you in trial. It's usually best to not give permission.