subject: Right to Remain Silent [print this page] Right to Remain Silent Right to Remain Silent
If you've ever watched a crime drama or seen a movie about a specific trial, you've probably heard the memorable few lines an officer speaks when making an arrest: "You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law..." But what do those lines mean? Called the Miranda rights, these lines provide you with the information you need to understand your rights under the Constitution. They safeguard any information you provide as being given voluntarily, not because you are being forced to talk.
The Miranda Warning
If you are arrested, an officer is legally required to read you the Miranda Warning before they ask you any questions - and you are not required to answer. The Warning itself states:
" You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you can't afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand these rights?"
The specific wording varies in different regions, but the basic message is the same: you don't have to speak, and you have the right to talk to your attorney before you take any further action.
What To Do
Most any Arizona defense attorney will let you know that the best thing to do at this moment is to remain silent. The police do not have to read you your Miranda rights if they are not asking you any questions about your alleged crime, but even if they are not read to you, it's best to remain silent and wait for the opportunity to talk to your attorney. The police can ask you for your name, birthday, and other basic information without needing to read you your rights.
It may seem rude to remain completely silent with a police officer, and it's understandable if you feel a little uncomfortable. If that's the case, simply say, "Officer, I do not wish to answer your questions until I speak with my attorney." Do not try to resist arrest or explain your actions; resisting arrest can be classified as a felony and anything you say can be used against you later on.
Instead, contact your Arizona defense attorney as soon as you are able to. You want to find an Arizona defense lawyer who has plenty of experience in dealing with cases similar to your charges. It's in your best interest to hire an attorney who will work diligently towards getting your charges reduced or even dismissed but that's not all. Choose an Arizona defense lawyer who can and will provide you with the tools you need to change your life.
