Being involved in a police investigation can be a scary experience for anyone. However, it’s important to know your basic rights so you don’t end up saying or doing something that will be held against you. A criminal attorney in New York can help you navigate the investigation, but here are some of the things you need to also be aware of regarding your basic rights.
The Right To Remain Silent
Every New York attorney will remind you that anything you say could be used against you, even if it’s a private telephone call. If you’re guilty of committing a crime, anything you say creates potential evidence. And if you’re innocent, not talking to anyone means no one can fabricate stories based on the information you tell them. Working with the top law firms in NYC is ideal so they can give you advice on how to handle communications throughout the investigation.
The Right To Privacy
Unless the police have a search warrant, you have a right to privacy in your home and you shouldn’t let them search it. Be polite about it with the police and tell them you would like to exercise your right to privacy, but always speak with your New York attorney about how to handle different situations.
The Right To Counsel
You have the right to hire a criminal attorney in New York and the police officer making the arrest should arrange for one for you. The attorney might not be available immediately, but you should be able to speak with one the same day as the arrest was made.
The Right To Leave
If a police officer searches you or your property and doesn’t find probable cause that you committed a crime, then you have a right to leave. The best thing to do is ask the officer if you are under arrest. If they say you are not under arrest, then you can leave and speak with a criminal attorney in New York for advice.
Gordon & Gordon is here for you when you need a reputable criminal attorney. Every step you take during a police investigation is crucial and you need to get advice from an experienced New York attorney so you don’t inadvertently harm your situation. We will be there to represent you every step of the way and provide legal guidance, so contact us immediately when you need representation.