Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

It's wise to believe that officers want what's best for everyone, but it's also important to be familiar with your rights. Police have access to so much power - to take away our liberty and, occasionally, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for drunken driving, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

Police Can Require Your ID Only if You're a Suspect

Many citizens don't know that they aren't obligated to answer all police questions, even if they have been pulled over. Even if you are required to show your ID, you may not have to say more about anything such as your recent whereabouts and activities or what you've been drinking, in the case of a DUI investigation. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and seconded by Supreme Court justices. You have a right not to give testimony against yourself, and you can almost always just leave if you aren't being detained or arrested.

Even though it's good to have a thorough understanding of your rights, you should hire a lawyer who knows all the minutia of the law so you can protect yourself fully. Knowing all therules and being familiar with the various situations in which they are applicable should be left up to good laywers. This is notably true since laws often change and matters of law are decided often that make changes too.

Sometimes You Should Talk to Police

While there are times to stay mute in the legal matters, remember how most police only want to help and would rather not take you in. You probably don't want to make cops feel like you're against them. This is yet one more reason to hire an attorney such as the expert lawyers at will and probate attorney Lake Geneva WI on your defense team, especially after being arrested. A qualified criminal defense lawyer can help you know when to be quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless police officers have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your home or vehicle without permission. However, if you start talking, leave evidence lying around, or submit to a search, any information gathered could be used against you in future criminal defense proceedings. It's probably best to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.