Police interrogations are often nerve-wracking experiences as law enforcement officers may use deceptive tactics to obtain information regarding an alleged crime. This can cause those interrogated to crack under pressure, leading to them being coerced into a confession. Whether you’ve been brought in for questioning as a suspect in an investigation or as someone who may have valuable information, it is vital to understand your rights to ensure they are not violated. If you do not understand your rights, the police may take advantage of your lack of familiarity with these rights when questioning you, which could result in criminal charges. Please continue reading and contact a determined Astoria Criminal Defense Lawyer who can safeguard your rights and help you navigate this complex process.
If you have been brought into police custody or asked to come in for questioning, you should immediately invoke your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. The Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution affords individuals the right not to be compelled to provide incriminationing information about themselves. It protects you from testifying against yourself when accused of a crime to avoid self-incrimination. Therefore, you do not have to answer the questions posed to you by an officer during an interrogation.
During interrogations, law enforcement officers will likely insist that if you cooperate with their investigation, in exchange, you will receive a lesser sentence. However, the police have no authority to reduce the penalties of a criminal sentence. During interrogations, you do not have the right to honesty. The police can lie to you to obtain a confession or relevant information regarding an alleged crime. A common misconception is that the police are required to be truthful with you, which can often result in individuals being reached into unintentionally incriminating themselves. That said, alongside your right to remain silent, you should invoke your right to legal counsel.
When you are in police custody or willingly come in for questioning, you have the right to be represented by a lawyer. Per your Sixth Amendment right, one will be provided at the state’s expense if you cannot afford to retain a lawyer. It is imperative to enact your right to legal counsel as the police know exactly what they are doing, and you are in unfamiliar territory with an immense fear of being subject to criminal charges. An experienced lawyer will know common police tactics and ensure you do not fall for their traps. They will be able to help you refrain from saying anything that can be used against you and negotiate favorable terms in exchange for your cooperation.
Having a seasoned lawyer on your side can ensure your rights are safeguarded during police interrogations. Police interrogations are intense. Don’t navigate this complex process alone. Allow a skilled lawyer from Vasiliou Law to represent your interests today.
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