The Fifth Amendment guarantees you the right to remain silent. The right to remain silent applies at the time of arrest and throughout a criminal case. If you do not want to say anything to the police, you do not have to. Attorneys, legal professionals, and even law enforcement officials often encourage defendants to remain silent. But why is it so important? Sawyer Legal Group wants to make certain you know about your Fifth Amendment rights.
Protect yourself from self-incrimination in Denver Using the fifth amendment
What is the worst that could happen if you choose not to be silent? Police will tell you that “anything you say can be used against you in a court of law.” This is absolutely true. You should remain silent before and after a police officer decides to put you in handcuffs. The moment a police officer starts talking to you, they are picking apart everything you say. Even when you are trying to be helpful, you could be piling up evidence against you. Even innocent people who say the wrong thing can find themselves arrested. The police assume you are guilty. A person may avoid an arrest, and a potential conviction if they remain silent.
Is the police officer’s job to try to get you to talk?
An investigator will tell you that you will help your situation if you tell them what happened. This is not the case. Listen for some telltale leading questions that investigators may use when questioning you. If you hear any of these questions, it’s time to evoke your Fifth Amendment rights:
- Did you know you were speeding?
- How many drinks did you have tonight?
- Your friend said you did ___________. Are they lying?
- Have you committed any crimes other than this before?
Defendants can’t lie but the police can?
It is illegal for you to lie to a police officer during an official investigation but it is not illegal for them to lie to you. Level the playing field. Remaining silent levels the playing field and protects your rights. One way to help balance a one-sided police encounter is to refuse to play their game at all and remain silent. For more information about your right to remain silent, contact us. If you need help with a Denver criminal or DUI case, contact the highly-rated defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group to protect your rights.
Don’t talk to the police about criminal charges – talk to us. 303-830-0880
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