No one likes dealing with the cops, whether they are being pulled over for drunken driving or just answering questions. You have responsibilities and rights, all the time. It's important to get a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many individuals are unaware that they aren't obligated to answer all an officer's questions, even if they have been pulled over. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. The U.S. Constitution protects all citizens and gives special protections that allow you to remain quiet or give only partial information. While it's usually a good plan to work nicely with police, it's important to understand that you have a right to not incriminate yourself.

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 can protect yourself reasonably. Legal matters change often, and disparate laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. It's also true that laws occasionally change during lawmaker meetings, and courts of law are constantly deciding new cases that shape the law further.

There are Times to Talk

It's good to know your rights, but you should realize that usually the officers aren't out to harm you. Most are decent people, and causing trouble is most likely to harm you in the end. Refusing to work with the cops could cause problems and make your community less safe. This is another reason why hiring the best criminal defense attorney, such as criminal justice attorney minnehaha wa is wise. A good attorney in criminal defense or DUI law can help you know when to talk.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

Beyond refusing to talk, you can refuse permission for a cop to look through your house or car. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence lying around, or submit to a search, any data gathered could be used against you in court. It's usually best to not give permission.