Even if the cops are helping you or treat you with kindness and respect, having to interact with them is rarely a positive experience. Whether your situation involves juveniles' committing crimes and traffic-related offenses or business-related and sex offenses, it's best to be aware of your rights and responsibilities. If you could be found guilt of criminal offenses or could be indicted, contact a good lawyer as soon as possible.
Identification? Not Necessarily
Many citizens are not aware that they aren't required by law to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they were driving. Even if you are required to show your ID, you may not have to say more about anything like where you've been or what you've been drinking, in the case of a potential DUI arrest. The U.S. Constitution applies to all people and gives specific protections that provide you the option to remain quiet or give only a little information. While it's usually a good plan to cooperate with officers, it's important to be aware that you have legal protections in your favor.
Even though it's best to have a basic knowledge of your rights, you should hire a criminal defense attorney who knows all the small stuff of the law so you're able to protect yourself reasonably. Knowing all thelegal requirements and being aware of the different situations in which they are applicable should be left up to good laywers. This is especially true since laws regularly change and court cases are decided often that make changes too.
There are Times to Talk
While there are times to stay mute in the face of legal action, remember how most cops really want to help and would rather not take you in. You don't want to make cops feel like your enemies. This is yet one more reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyers at criminal law Portland OR on your team, especially during questioning. Your attorney can advise you on when you should volunteer information and when to shut your mouth.
Question Permission to Search
You don't have to give permission to search your house or car. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence everywhere, or give your OK a search, any data found could be used against you in trial. It's probably good to say no to searches verbally and then get out of the way.