People should exercise caution when talking with police. In some cases, such as when a New Hampshire officer asks you for your name and identification, you should provide that information. However, if a police officer decides to place you under arrest, what you say afterward can have serious legal ramifications. According to Lifehacker, it is better for you not to answer a police officer’s inquires at all once you are in custody.
When the police arrest you, their first task is to read your Miranda rights. Among these rights is your right to legal representation. Once you confirm you understand these rights, the next thing you ought to say is that you want to talk to an attorney. From then on, it is important that you keep silent, because any statement you make could be used against you in court.
Some people may be tempted to answer questions at this stage if they believe they are being truthful. However, any answer that you give can cause trouble for you later on. Even factually correct answers may put you in legal peril. If a police officer asks you a question that requires a simple yes or no answer, do not take the risk by answering. According to the Lifehacker article, law enforcement can utilize even a single word answer to great effect.
If you find yourself in a situation where a police officer is not respecting your right to remain silent, take note of the officer’s badge number and name. You can use this information later on to file a complaint. This information can also be important in showing that your rights were infringed upon by the police, and could lead to the dismissal of your case.
This article is written solely to provide readers with general information on criminal defense topics. Do not interpret it as legal advice for your situation.