There may come a time in your life when you are stopped and asked questions by the police. Maybe they suspect you of a crime, or maybe they will be asking you if you saw something related to a crime. No matter what the reason, it is important to know how you should react and what your rights are. Here are some things to do if you are ever stopped and questioned by the police.
When The Police Approach You To Ask Questions
There might be times when a crime has been committed, and the police on the scene want to ask you questions about what you might have seen or know about it. Their job is to protect the public, and they do have some powers to help do that. If you are approached and asked questions, it does not necessarily mean you are a suspect. Law-abiding citizens should cooperate as best they can to make it easier for the police to do their jobs. Never lie to a police officer. Lying can lead to charges relating to obstructing the police in conducting their business.
When The Police Stop You To Ask Questions
There may also be time when an officer confronts you more aggressively to ask you questions. You may feel that you do not have a choice but to answer them. In these cases, the officer is probably using some sort of force or a display of authority, and you might consider yourself to be detained. In these cases, it can be assumed that you are suspected of committing or having been involved in committing a crime. The officer must have a reasonable suspicion to legally interfere with your freedom to move. They do not have to tell you you are a suspect, but their behavior will indicate your status. It’s at this point that your Miranda Rights come into play. You have to right to ask for an attorney, and you have the right to refuse to answer questions. If you do not invoke those rights, then the police can continue questioning you. You also have the right to refuse any searches of your person or your property without legal justification.
Hopefully you are never in a position to be approached or stopped by the police. However, if you are, it is very valuable to know your rights ahead of time so that you will handle the situation without getting yourself into further legal complications.
If you need an expungement off of your record, the Law Office of Mark Herman can help. Reach out online or call 612-382-4545 for a free consultation.
