It's a good idea to trust that cops want what's best in most situations, 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 choices and, sometimes, 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.

Police Can Require Your ID Only if You're a Suspect

Many individuals don't know that they aren't obligated to answer all police questions, even if they are behind the wheel. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you may not have to say more about anything like where you've been or whether you drink, in the case of a potential DUI arrest. These rights were put into the U.S. Constitution and have been verified by the U.S. Supreme Court. While it's usually wise to be cooperative with cops, it's important to understand that you have a right to not incriminate yourself.

Even though it's good to have a thorough knowledge of your rights, you need a criminal defense attorney who knows all the small stuff of the law if you want to protect yourself fully. Knowing all the laws and understanding the multiple situations in which they are applicable should be left up to good laywers. Find someone whose main priority it is to know these things for the best possible outcome to any criminal defense or DUI case.

Sometimes You Should Talk to Police

While there are instances when you should be quiet in the legal matters, remember how most officers really want to help and would rather not take you out. You don't want to make the police feel like you're against them. This is an additional reason to work with an attorney such as the expert lawyers at auto accident lawyer Marietta GA on your team, especially during questioning. Your lawyer can tell you when you should speak up with information and when to keep quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

Unless the police have probable cause that you you are a criminal, they can't search your home or vehicle without permission. However, if you begin to talk, leave evidence of criminal activity in plain sight, or give your OK a search, any knowledge found could be used against you in future criminal defense proceedings. It's probably smart to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.