When being questioned by the police about a crime for which you are a suspect, a natural tendency is to want to just “tell it all,” especially if you know you are innocent or believe there is no evidence to prove your guilt. This is not wise. The best option is to always invoke your right to remain silent and contact a Lewisville criminal defense lawyer.
You Have a Right to Remain Silent
Miranda Rights are rights that must be read to anyone who has been taken into custody, so they know what their rights are as they begin to face the government in the criminal law process. One of these rights is the right to remain silent – otherwise, anything you say can and will be used against you.
For this reason, if there is any indication – however slight – that you might be suspected of having committed a crime, you can rightfully choose to not say anything to the police or give any statement without the presence of your lawyer. Instead, insist on having a lawyer present before you answer any questions.
Be Aware of Police Tricks and Tactics
The police may be nice and seem to be on your side, but they are there to do a job they are well trained to do, and that is to get people suspected of crimes to confess or give other incriminating information. Do not fall for their friendliness. Instead, once you have been taken into custody, which means you are not free to leave, you simply tell the police that you invoke your rights, and you are not going to answer any questions without your lawyer present.
Do not make the mistake of asking the police officer whether you need a lawyer because they will tell you that you do not, which is not true. Police can and will lie to you to get the information they need.
Choosing to Remain Silent Cannot Be Used Against You
If you chose to remain silent and ask to speak only if your lawyer is present, you might worry that it will make you appear to be guilty. However, keep in mind that your silence cannot be used against you at a trial. You have the right to remain silent and call a criminal defense lawyer before answering any questions, and invoking this right cannot jeopardize your criminal case.
You must be unequivocal in your request to have a lawyer present before you answer any questions. Remain polite, but clearly state that you will not answer questions without a lawyer. If police officers continue to ask you questions, any information they get from you should be inadmissible in court, as it was collected in violation of your rights.
What a Lewisville Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You
If you have been arrested, you have a right to call a Lewisville criminal defense lawyer, and calling the Law Office of Brent D. Bowen, PLLC, will ensure you have competent legal counsel to help ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation.
