DALE CARSON LAW

It’s not always necessary to hire an attorney, or lawyer, if the police hope to speak with you. However, if you have any inclination to speak to the police, we always encourage people to talk to an attorney first. If someone is not in a financial position to hire a lawyer, or if they’re simply comfortable going forward on their own, they certainly can do that. However, we would always encourage people to never speak to police unless you have an attorney present because there are just so many risks involved it that.

Moreover, talking to law enforcement without an attorney or lawyer present can unintentionally lead to self-incrimination. That is, even if you believe you have nothing to hide, or if you’re just a witness, you can still say the wrong thing. Actually, police are trained in interrogation tactics and may use techniques that encourage you to speak freely. Be careful of what is said! You can always choose to remain silent per the fifth amendment. Having discussions can lead to potential unintended consequences. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.

Ultimately, the long-term consequences of interacting with the police should be thoroughly considered. While you might feel confident with talking to the officers on your own, it’s safer in the long run to have professional legal counsel present to avoid any miscommunications. Generally, protecting your rights is not just about the present moment but protecting your future against unforeseen legal repercussions.