Monder Law Group - News
Here’s Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer when Being Questioned by an Officer
There are several situations in which you can get questioned by an SDPD officer. The officer may want to inquire into your potential involvement in a crime, after which you can even get arrested – even if you are innocent. The experience can be very stressful and lead you to make a series of mistakes. That is why it’s essential that you know your constitutional rights. The best thing to do is to hire a criminal defense lawyer San Diego residents trust, who will make sure your rights aren’t infringed in any way.
Here’s what you need to know about being questioned by the police in San Diego, and why hiring a criminal defense lawyer is a smart move.
If you are stopped by an officer for informal questioning
SDPD officers have a duty to protect the community. They have the right to approach you on the street and ask you questions. However, this does not mean you are considered a suspect in a crime. Most people automatically assume the police is seeing them as a suspect, so they panic and sometimes even lie to the officers. Giving a false statement is seen as ‘’obstructing official business’’ and is definitely something to avoid.
So what can you do?
The simple answer is: remain silent. The ‘’right to remain silent’’ when being questioned on US soil is guaranteed by the 5th Amendment. In other words, you can choose not to answer questions the officers ask you. You should politely inform the officers that you intend to remain silent, as is your right.
During an informal interrogation, the police should either confirm or deny the suspicion they may have against you. They don’t have the right to force you to talk if you express your intent to remain silent. You can even end the interrogation by asking whether you are under arrest. If the answer is ‘’no’’, you can leave. If an officer tries to stop you, they are violating the prohibition against unreasonable seizures, as guaranteed by the 4th Amendment.
If you are interrogated after getting arrested
The ‘’right of silence’’ also applies to the situation in which you are placed under arrest. You should be aware that whatever you say, may (and probably will) be used against you in the court of law. That’s why a criminal defense lawyer San Diego residents rely on will tell you it’s best to remain silent.
You can get arrested even if you are not guilty of a crime. However, you may say things that can be used against you, which may lead to a criminal charge. You may be under a lot of stress and not even be aware how what you’re saying can hurt you. That’s why it’s absolutely necessary to remain silent and call a trusted San Diego criminal defense lawyer. They will talk you through the process, establish the facts and determine the best course of action.
If you are under investigation, but haven’t been arrested
If you have any reason to believe that the authorities have taken an interest in you or a member of your family, you should definitely consult a competent criminal defense lawyer. Explain your situation, and ask about what you should or shouldn’t do/say in case an officer stops you for questioning or places you under arrest. It’s best to be prepared because a single mistake can cost you your freedom.
It’s important to know that consulting a San Diego criminal defense lawyer is a smart move even if you are innocent of a crime. Expert guidance by an experienced lawyer will ensure that you are not misunderstood or coerced into saying something that can potentially harm you.
#1 Criminal Defense Lawyer San Diego
Vik Monder is the go-to criminal defense lawyer in San Diego. His impressive track record speaks volumes not only of his competence but also compassion and thorough understanding of the law. Attorney Monder makes sure the rights of his clients aren’t violated in any way and secures the best possible defense. He has a proven history of accomplishing his goals even when the odds were against him.
If you need a tenacious criminal defense attorney who will fight for your rights, contact Vik Monder at 619-405-0063 and request a free consultation.
