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 know your rights. Police have access to so much 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.

Police Can't Always Require ID

Many people are unaware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. If they aren't driving, they may not have to show identification. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and seconded by Supreme Court justices. While it's usually wise to work nicely with police, it's important to know that you have rights.

Even law-abiding people need attorneys. Whether you have pushed the limits of the law or not, you should be protected. State and federal laws change on a regular basis, and differing laws apply jurisdictionally. This is notably true since laws regularly change and court cases are decided often that also make a difference.

Usually, Talking is OK

While there are times for silence in the face of legal action, remember that most police just want peace and justice and would rather not take you in. You shouldn't want to make police officers feel like your enemies. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert lawyer at Attorney for Vehicle Accident Powder Springs GA on your side, especially after being arrested. A good criminal defense lawyer can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Question Permission to Search

Beyond refusing to talk, you can deny permission for the police to search your house or car. Probable cause, defined in a simple way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's less simple in practice, though. It's probably best to always refuse searches verbally and let the courts and your attorney sort it out later.

Attorney for Vehicle Accident Powder Springs GA