Your Rights and Responsibilities with Police

It's usually right that police want what's best for everyone, but it's also important to know your rights and make sure you are protected. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our freedom and, in some instances, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for drunken driving, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

You May Not Need to Show ID

Many individuals are not aware that they don't have to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. Even if you must show identification, you usually don't have to say much more about anything like where you've been 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 affirmed by the courts. You have a right not to give testimony against yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't being detained or arrested.

Even law-abiding people need lawyers. Whether or not you've done anything wrong such as driving while drunk or speeding, you should be protected. State and federal laws change on a regular basis, and different laws apply based on jurisdiction and other factors. This is particularly true since laws often change and matters of law are decided often that also make a difference.

Know When to Talk

It's best to know your rights, but you should know that usually the cops aren't out to hurt you. Most are good men and women, and causing an issue is most likely to hurt you in the end. Refusing to work with the cops could cause be problematic. This is another instance when you should hire the best criminal defense attorney, such as Criminal defense attorney Portland OR 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

Beyond refusing to talk, you can refuse to allow for a cop to look through your home or vehicle. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence of criminal activity in plain sight, or give your OK a search, any knowledge collected could be used against you in future criminal defense proceedings. It's usually best to not give permission.