Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

It's usually right that cops want what's best in most situations, but it's also important to be familiar with your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have access to so much power - to take away our choices and, in some instances, even our lives. If you are involved in a a criminal defense case or investigated for driving drunk, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many citizens are unaware that they aren't required by law to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and have been verified by the U.S. Supreme Court. While it's usually wise to cooperate with officers, it's important to understand that you have legal protections in your favor.

Imagine a scenario where officers suspect you may have broken the law, but you aren't guilty. This is just one time where you ought to consider to get help from a qualified, competent attorney. Legal matters change often, and disparate laws apply jurisdictionally. Find someone whose first responsibility it is to be aware of these things if you want to prevail in any criminal defense or DUI case.

Know When to Talk

It's best to know your rights, but you should know that usually the police aren't out to hurt you. Most are good people like you, and causing disorder is most likely to trouble you in the end. Refusing to cooperate could cause problems and make your community less safe. This is another instance when you should hire the best criminal defense attorney, such as wills lake geneva wi is wise. A qualified attorney in criminal defense or DUI law can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Question Permission to Search

Unless cops have probable cause that you you are a criminal, they can't search your house or your car without permission. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence everywhere, or grant permission for a search, any data found could be used against you in court. It's usually best to not give permission.