It's a good idea to trust that police want what's best in most situations, but it's a good idea to know your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have access to so much power - to take away our freedom and, occasionally, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for driving drunk, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

Police Can't Always Require ID

Many individuals are unaware that they aren't required by law to answer all an officer's questions, even if they are behind the wheel. Even if you must show identification, you may not have to say more about anything like where you've been or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a potential DUI arrest. The U.S. Constitution covers all of us and gives specific protections that let you remain silent or give only partial information. You have a right not to give testimony against yourself, and you have a right to walk away if you aren't being detained or arrested.

Even though it's best to have a thorough understanding of your rights, you should get a lawyer who gets all the minutia of the law if you want to protect yourself reasonably. Legal matters change on a regular basis, and different laws apply jurisdictionally. This is especially true since laws often change and matters of law are decided often that also make a difference.

Usually, Talking is OK

While there are times for silence in the working with the police, remember that most police really want peace and justice and would rather not make arrests. You shouldn't want to make cops feel like your enemies. This is another reason to hire an attorney such as the expert lawyers at Insurance claim lawyers Tacoma WA on your defense team, especially for interrogation. Your lawyer can tell you when you should give information and when to shut your mouth.

Know When to Grant or Deny Permission

In addition to refusing to answer questions, you can refuse to allow for the police to look through your house or car. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been perpetrated. It's more serious than that, though. It's probably best to say no to searches verbally and let the courts and your defense attorney sort it out later.