Even if police officers are providing help or treat you with kindness and respect, having to interact with them is isn't your idea of a great time. Whether your situation involves juvenile crimes, traffic or DUI and driving-while-intoxicated crimes or white collar, sex offense, violent or drug crimes, it's important to know your duties and rights. If you could be guilty of wrongdoing or could face charges, contact an attorney immediately.
Police Can Require Your ID Only if You're a Suspect
Many people are unaware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they were driving. Even if you must show identification, 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. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and seconded by Supreme Court justices. 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 though it's important to have a solid education about your rights, you should hire a lawyer who knows all the small stuff of the law so you're able to protect yourself reasonably. Legal matters change regularly, and differing laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. Find someone whose main priority it is to keep up on these things for the best possible outcome to any crime, even a DUI.
Know When to Talk
It's good to know your rights, but you should think about the fact that usually the cops aren't out to harm you. Most are decent people, and causing disorder is most likely to harm you in the end. Refusing to work with the cops could cause be problematic. This is another reason why hiring the best criminal defense attorney, such as Truck Accident Lawyer Powder Springs GA is wise. Your lawyer can advise you on when you should give information and when to shut your mouth.
Question Permission to Search
Unless police officers have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your house or your car without permission. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been perpetrated. It's more complicated in reality, though. It's probably good to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.
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