Being stopped and questioned by the police is rarely a pleasant experience, even for those who have not committed any sort of crime. It’s important for all citizens and non-citizen immigrants to understand that they do have legal rights. If the police arrest you on criminal charges after questioning you or you feel that the officers may have violated your rights, contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. A federal criminal defense lawyer may be able to have the charges against you dropped if the arresting officer committed a procedural error.
RIGHTS
If you’re placed under arrest, you have the right not to answer the police officers’ questions. If you choose to exercise your right to remain silent, inform the officers of your decision. Furthermore, you have the right to contact a criminal defense attorney upon your arrest and you should ask to call your lawyer immediately. If you aren’t placed under arrest, you have the right to leave. You also have the right to refuse to allow police officers to search your home, vehicle, and person, provided the officers do not have probable cause or a search warrant.
RESPONSIBILITIES
In some cases, police officers attempt to use a suspect’s behavior to arrest him or her on additional charges, such as resisting arrest. If you’re stopped for questioning, it’s important to avoid giving the officers a reason to arrest you. Do not lie or produce false documents, and do not try to interfere with an investigation. Try to stay calm and always be polite.
IMMIGRATION STATUS
Police officers, immigration agents, and other officials may stop you to question you about your immigration status. You are not required to answer these questions unless you are at an airport or international border. However, if an immigration agent asks to review your immigration documents, you must produce them. If you do not have them with you, you can exercise your right to remain silent.
If you believe your legal rights may have been violated, contact Turnbull Legal Group right away. Our Federal defense attorney serving has a long track record of successfully defending clients accused of a range of criminal offenses. Individuals throughout the Houston, Conroe, and Bryan/College Station areas can call (832) 314-3232.
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