What to do During a DUI Stop
- 4 25, 2016
- |Divorce Attorney
- No Comments
It's a good idea to trust that cops want what's best in most situations, but it's wise to know your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have the ultimate power - to take away our liberty and, in some instances, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for a DUI or another crime, make sure you are protected by an attorney.
You May Not Need to Show ID
Many citizens are unaware that they aren't obligated to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. Even if you are required to show your ID, 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 have been verified by the U.S. Supreme Court. 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 best to have a thorough education about your rights, you need a legal advocate who understands all the minutia of the law if you want to protect yourself fully. Legal matters change often, and disparate laws apply jurisdictionally. It's also true that laws often get changed during legislative sessions, and courts of law are constantly making new rulings.
There are Times to Talk
While there are instances when you should be quiet in the face of legal action, remember how most cops really want to keep the peace and would rather not take you out. You probably don't want to make the police feel like you hate them. This is an additional reason to hire an attorney such as the expert lawyer at divorce and family law reston va on your side, especially during questioning. An expert criminal defense lawyer can help you know when to be quiet.
Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally
Unless cops have probable cause that you have committed a crime, they can't search your house or your car without permission. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence lying around, or grant permission for a search, any information found could be used against you in trial. It's probably smart to say no to searches verbally and let the courts and your lawyer sort it out later.