It's a good idea to trust that cops want what's best for you and your community, but it's wise to be aware of your rights. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our freedom and, sometimes, even our lives. If you are involved in a a criminal defense case or investigated for drunken driving, make sure you are protected by a good lawyer.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many people are not aware that they don't have to answer all police questions, even if they are behind the wheel. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you usually don't have to say much more about anything such as your recent whereabouts and activities or what you've been drinking, in the case of a drunken driving stop. These protections were put into the U.S. Constitution and seconded by Supreme Court justices. While it's usually wise to work nicely with police, it's important to be aware that you have legal protections in your favor.

Even though it's best to have a thorough knowledge of your rights, you should hire a legal advocate who understands all the implications of the law if you want to protect yourself fully. Knowing all thelegal requirements and being familiar with the various situations in which they apply should be left up to qualified attorneys. It's also true that laws occasionally get adjusted during deliberative sessions, and courts of law are constantly making further changes.

Know When to Talk

It's wise to know your rights, but you should know that usually the officers aren't out to harm you. Most are decent people, and causing disorder is most likely to trouble you in the end. Refusing to cooperate could cause be problematic. This is another explanation for why it's best to hire the best criminal defense attorney, such as insurance claims attorney Tacoma WA is wise. Your attorney can inform you regarding when you should volunteer information and when to keep quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless the police have probable cause that you have committed a crime, they can't search your home or vehicle without permission. Probable cause, defined in a simple way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's more serious than that, though. It's probably smart to always refuse searches verbally and let your attorney handle it.