When You Need a Lawyer After Talking to the Police in Washington DC

When You Need a Lawyer After Talking to the Police in Washington DC

Talking to the police can be scary, especially if they think you did something wrong. You might feel like you need to answer all their questions and cooperate fully. But that can get you into trouble if they try to pin something on you that you didn’t do. So when exactly do you need to get a lawyer after talking to the police in Washington DC? Here’s some guidance on your rights and when to exercise them.

If You’re Arrested

If the police arrest you, it means they think they have enough evidence to charge you with a crime¹. Even if you’re innocent, anything you say can be used against you. So it’s important to invoke your right to remain silent by saying, “I want to speak to a lawyer.” Don’t say anything else or answer any questions until you have a lawyer present. The police might try to convince you that cooperating is in your best interest. But they are allowed to lie and manipulate you, so your best bet is asking for an attorney.

If You’re Not Free to Leave

You don’t have to be under arrest for your rights to kick in. If the police won’t let you leave or end the encounter, you’re technically being detained. That means you’re not free to go and can invoke your right to remain silent². It’s safest to ask if you’re free to leave – if they say no, ask for a lawyer immediately. Don’t let them pressure you into answering questions without one.

If They Ask for a “Voluntary” Interview

The police might ask you to come in “voluntarily” for an interview about a crime. But voluntary really means you can leave if you want to. If they start to accuse you of something, end the interview and get a lawyer. Don’t let them bait you into admitting anything that could get you charged. And never go to a police station without your attorney.

If They Come to Your Home

Police can sometimes show up at your home and ask to come inside, search the place, or question you. You don’t have to let them in or answer questions without a warrant³. Say you won’t consent to a search and want to speak to an attorney. Shut the door if needed. Don’t worry about seeming uncooperative.

If They Stop You on the Street

Police only need reasonable suspicion to stop and briefly detain you on the street⁴. They can pat you down for weapons too. But they can’t search your pockets or belongings unless they arrest you or get consent. During a stop, stick to identifying yourself and don’t answer other questions. If they ask, say you do not consent to a search.

If They Pull You Over

When police pull you over, they usually need probable cause that you violated traffic laws. You must show your license, registration and insurance when asked. But you aren’t required to answer additional questions. If they ask you to exit the car or search it, politely refuse consent. Only do field sobriety tests if arrested for DUI.

When in Doubt, Ask for a Lawyer

Dealing with the police is always high stakes. When in doubt about your rights, it’s better to be safe and ask for an attorney. The police might threaten you or say innocent people have nothing to hide. But don’t fall for intimidation tactics – exercise your right to remain silent and get legal counsel. Having a lawyer ensures the police play by the rules during an investigation.