Protect Your Rights When Interacting With Authorities

Speaking with a police officer can be intimidating, so it’s important to handle these encounters strategically. In many cases, officers may try to keep things casual and talk to you like a friend. However, no matter how cordial they appear, always take these interactions with a grain of salt. Their job in these scenarios is not to protect you; it’s to interrogate or arrest you for an alleged crime – and saying one wrong thing could put you at a disadvantage.

If you are under police questioning, know your rights and contact  Robinson Law, PLLC , as soon as possible. Our attorneys can represent you during police interrogations to help you answer your questions legally and effectively.

What To Do When Speaking To Police

Here are a few important reminders to consider when interacting with authorities:

• Remain calm:  Speaking with police can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, you can benefit from appearing relaxed and collected. When you remain calm, you can reduce your chances of escalating the situation.
• Keep your answers brief:  Chances are you can only speak with an attorney after initial questioning. During these interactions, they may ask you a series of questions. If they do, simple “yes” or “no” answers are often sufficient. Saying more than that could arouse suspicion.
• Remember your Miranda Rights:  Even if you remain calm and keep your answers brief, you could still face arrest. If you do, remember your Miranda Rights. If officers continue interrogations under custody, remember you have the right to remain silent, speak with an attorney before questioning, and have an attorney present during questioning.

Remember these tips when dealing with the police, not following them can have serious consequences.

What Not To Do When Speaking To Police

Here are a few things you should try to avoid:

• Elaborate, explain, or give excuses:  Any answer you give them beyond a simple “yes” or “no” could be held against you later, making your case much more difficult to defend.
• Hiding your hands:  You may naturally put your hands in your pockets because you feel nervous or uncomfortable. However, in many cases, that can escalate tensions, as many officers may suspect you have a weapon or are hiding something from them.
• Consent to a search without a warrant:  In most cases, police need a warrant to search your property. If they ask to search your vehicle, home, or personal belongings without one and you let them, it could hurt you later on in your case.

While you should try to avoid these actions when speaking with police, the biggest mistake you can make is not calling an attorney. Even if you make a mistake, the right lawyer can still increase your chances of success in your case.

Don’t Sit On Your Charges – Call Today

When speaking with police leads to a criminal charge, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. We’ve been defending people against criminal charges in Virginia for many years, and we know how to navigate the system. Call 703-844-3746 or complete our  online contact form to schedule a free consultation with our lawyers today.