Welcome back and thanks for joining The Kronzek Firm again. We’ve been talking about the difficulties faced by people accused of a crime or caught up in a criminal investigation as a suspect. Specifically, how they should act when confronted by the police. As we mentioned in the previous article, the police departments consist of predominantly good people, but one of their most important jobs is to solve crimes as quickly as possible. And when cops are rushing to find a solution to a case and move on, they’re more likely to make mistakes. This increases the chance that the wrong person will be put behind bars, and the actual criminal will get off scot-free. So what can you do to ensure that you’re not the one stuck behind bars for something you didn’t do?
If you might be, or have been accused, don’t consent to a search!
There are times and circumstances where cops have the right to search you or your property without your permission. For example, when they have a warrant, or there’s some kind of emergency happening. But most searches need your consent of the police don’t have a warrant, and that’s where you need to be extra careful! DO NOT ever give consent for an officer to search anything when you have a choice. Whether it’s your home, your car, or just your body, if they ask your permission, don’t grant it until you’ve talked to your attorney first! Don’t buy into it if a cop tells you that they’ll just get a warrant and be back in a few hours. Make them try to get the warrant if they can, but do not consent to the search unless you have no choice! (Note that this does not apply to the “implied consent” that is assumed during a drunk driving investigation.)
Never stick around unless you don’t have a choice in the matter!
Another thing you need to remember is that the cops aren’t going to tell you can just leave. They want you to stick around because the longer they can keep you talking, the better their chances of getting you to slip up and say something incriminating. So you need to be proactive and ask, “Am I free to leave?” Will there be any legal blowback if you politely say goodbye and leave? Ask that question clearly and often. Telling the officer that you don’t want to answer any questions without your lawyer being present is a great idea. Staying when you don’t have to just means more opportunities for the cops to try and wear down your defenses, and a greater chance that you’ll say something you regret later on. If you’re not sure if you’re free to leave, just ask the police officer that question in a calm and polite way. If you can go, then go – now! If you’re not allowed to leave, shut up and lawyer up!
Be careful what you say when you’re with the cops!
At this point, we’ve told you to stay silent so much that we’d expect you to know your Miranda rights like the back of your hand. But some people accused of crimes make the mistake of thinking that as long as they’re not admitting to something, they’re okay. But that’s not true either. ANYTHING you say can be used against you (remember that part of your Miranda rights?) And that includes telling “white lies” or partial truths, or “whitewashed” versions of the facts. Either tell the truth or keep your mouth shut. There is a very strong preference to just shut up and lawyer up. When your lawyer arrives you can explain everything to your attorney and they’ll help you figure out what info you should share, and what you need to keep to yourself.
As we said before – you need a great lawyer immediately!
Being arrested and accused of a crime is a terrible feeling. Especially if you’re innocent! Which is why one of the most important decisions you’re ever going to make when you’re in potential legal trouble, is which lawyer to hire. Obviously, like almost everything else in life, you get what you pay for. So if you’re being questioned by police in Lansing, Grand Rapids, Ionia, Sturgis or Howell regarding a possible crime, call The Kronzek Firm right now at 866 766 5245 (866 7No Jail). Our team of experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorneys has been successfully defending the people of Michigan since the last century. We can help you too.