1. Other than giving your name and current activities, you are not required to say anything to them.
When talking with the police, you are not required to answer their questions. If you feel like they are trying to get information other than your name and what you are doing out of you, or you are uncomfortable, just stop answering their questions. They cannot make you answer. Remember to comply with any orders they give you, but keep in mind that you do not have to answer their questions.
2. Don’t be rude to the police.
Though you may feel like a police officer is harassing you or being unfair, it is best to say nothing to them that will make them angry. Being aggressive, upset, or rude to a police officer can make them more suspicious of you and could lead to further action you did not intend for. Remember that if you are rude to a police officer, they will likely remember how you acted towards them later, changing the way they present their story or even how they testify in court.
3. Remember that all police officers carry guns.
Being aware that all police officers carry guns is important so that they do not take violent action against you if they feel provoked. This tip goes hand in hand in not being rude. If you are respectful and compliant with an officer, they will not have any reason to use their weapon. Remaining calm and keeping your cool can be the difference between life and death.
4. You are not obligated to let them search you.
If you have been stopped by the police, you do not have to consent to a search of your property or vehicle. The police are not usually allowed to search you unless they have your consent, a warrant, or a recognized exception to the warrant requirement. It is important to know your rights so that you can tell them no before they do something they are not allowed to do.
5. Ask the officers questions.
If you have been stopped by a police officer, it is a good idea to get their confirmation before leaving or doing anything when you are with them. Asking things like “Am I allowed to leave?” or “Why have I been stopped?”. Calmly asking these types of questions can protect your rights as well as check officers before they arrest you without probable cause, or create a situation where they believe you are being non-compliant. When dealing with police officers, it is important to always be calm and to not do anything that could be perceived as a threat to them.
6. Police officers do not need to “Mirandarize” you to use your statements against you.
If you have been stopped by the police, they are allowed to ask you questions and use your statements in court, even if they have not read you your Miranda rights. As long as you aren’t in custody, they are allowed to ask you questions without reading you your Miranda rights. Remember that Miranda rights only have to be read to you if you are in custody and being interrogated, otherwise, they do not have to do so.
7. Request to speak with a lawyer.
If you ever feel uncomfortable when talking with the police, ask them to speak with your Denver criminal defense lawyer. In most cases, refusing to let you speak to your attorney is illegal and having it on the record that you asked their permission is useful in case they deny your request. If you have recently spoken with the police and need a Denver criminal defense attorney, call Krizman Law today at 303.529.2677.
Follow this link to see a video on why you should never talk to the police!
Mr. Krizman is a criminal defense attorney in Denver, Colorado. He specializes in providing relentless defense for domestic violence, DUI, and drug crimes. He is a former public defender who has also worked for a district attorney and is licensed in the State of Colorado, and the United States Federal Court, District of Colorado. Mr. Krizman is a member of the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, Colorado Bar Association, Denver Bar Association, and Arapahoe County Bar Association. A Colorado native, he has a law degree from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law, and a bachelor’s degree in Government and World Affairs from the University of Tampa. Call him today at 720.819.7317.