Criminal Law
The Police & Your Rights
Is it wise to have a lawyer present during interrogations?
Yes, even when you are not in custody. It is a good idea to call the local public defender or a lawyer in private practice before you talk to the police. A lawyer, or possibly a public defender, will be permitted to accompany you to the police station and be present to protect your interests during police questioning.
Many people believe that what they say to the police is not admissible unless written down, recorded on tape, or said to a prosecutor or judge. That is not true. To be on the safe side, you should assume that anything you say to anybody but your lawyer could be used against you at trial.
>>How does one report a crime?
>>How do the police investigate crimes?
>>How long may police hold suspects before filing charges?
>>What is probable cause?
>>If the police stop me for drunk driving, what tests may they force me to take?
>>What procedures must the police follow while making an arrest?
>>What are Miranda rights?
>>What is an interrogation?
>>Is it wise to have a lawyer present during interrogations?
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