What should I do if…
the police stop me on the street?
- You do not have to answer any questions.
- Feel free to say, “I don’t want to talk to you” and walk calmly away.
- If you aren’t comfortable just walking away, ask if you are free to go.
- If the answer is yes, walk away. Don’t run!
- If the officer says you are not free to leave, then you are being detained.
- Being detained is not the same as being arrested, but you could be arrested later.
- You do not need to answer any questions if you are detained or arrested.
- You do need to give your name.
- What they say on TV is true: “Anything you say can and will be used against you.”
- The police can pat down the outside of your clothing, but only if they have reasonable suspicion to believe that you may be armed and dangerous.
- If they do more than pat you down, say clearly “I do not consent to a search”.
the police stop me in my car?
- Keep your hands where police can see them, at all times
- You must show you drivers license, registration and proof of insurance if requested. Have that ready before the officer gets to your car door.
- If it is night, turn on the interior light.
- The police cannot search your car unless you give them consent unless they have “probable cause”.
I am arrested?
- You have a constitutional right to remain silent. Give your name, but do not answer any other questions, no matter what the police tell you.
- You have a constitutional right to an attorney. Ask for one right away.
- The police are not allowed to question you without an attorney present after you ask for one.
- The police can and will listen to phone calls or visits with anyone other than your attorney.
We Can Assist you with:
- DUI
- Drug crimes
- Public Intoxication
- Trespass
- Assault and Battery
- Juvenile offenses
- Burglary
- Shoplifting
- Robbery
- Theft
- Credit Card Theft
- Disorderly Conduct
- Domestic Violence
- Federal Crimes
- Misdemeanors
- Felonies
- Forgery
- Fraud
- Gun Crimes
- Hit and Run
- Probation Violations
- Resisting Arrest
- Violent Crimes
- Traffic Tickets