subject: Advice from a Fort Lauderdale Criminal Attorney [print this page] If you are stopped by the police you should remain quiet, be polite, and cooperative. Any question asked about your identity should be answered. You also need to produce your license and registration when asked. If any other questions are asked you can use common sense to answer them, but a Fort Lauderdale criminal attorney advises you to remain quiet. You should never have an attitude that could be belligerent or worse. Also do not demand a lawyer, but inform the police who stopped you that you feel you would like to talk with your attorney. By remaining calm and polite the police have no option other than to get you a lawyer. The situation for why you were stopped can also determine how you act regarding the need for a lawyer. A routine speeding ticket does not generally require an attorney.
When arrested by the police for criminal charges like white collar crimes it is best to ask for a Fort Lauderdale criminal attorney. You should not run or resist arrest as this can make the situation worse. Instead allow the police to read you your rights. Whether you are a citizen or not, you do have rights on US soil. You have the right to remain silent, understand that if you say anything it can be used against you, and you also have the right to have a lawyer with you at questioning. Your Miranda rights should be provided as soon as the cops tell you that they are arresting you.
There are other situations in which you might feel a Fort Lauderdale criminal attorney is needed. For example, the police do have the right to detain you if they feel you have been involved in a crime. A witness can also be detained in order to get a statement. However, the officer should have reasonable grounds for the detainment. They also need to have reasonable beliefs for patting you down. A weapon is often the reason they will do a pat down to ensure their safety, as well as those around you.
A police officer has to have a reasonable suspicion that is articulated in order to ask you questions during the detainment process. You do not have to answer them without proper representation. Any questions you have about these procedures can be asked by seeking a Fort Lauderdale criminal attorney such as one from Joffe Law. If you feel you may be arrested, stopped or detained you should contact an attorney regarding your rights and how to react.
