Is it OK to Talk to Police if I am Innocent of Charges?
Our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys explain how to handle police encounters and why you need legal help, even if innocent of charges.
Otherwise, honest and upright people can easily find themselves on the wrong side of the law in Texas. Even if you are innocent of any wrongdoing, you could find yourself facing serious criminal charges. If stopped by police, questioned, or detained, be aware of your rights. Our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys explain how to handle police encounters and the importance of obtaining legal help, regardless of guilt or innocence.
Protecting Your Rights in Police Encounters
We have all heard stories of innocent people whose lives were ruined due to being wrongfully accused or convicted of criminal charges. If stopped or questioned by the police, it is important to be aware of your rights. The Texas Department of Public Safety offers tips for traffic stops, but these principles apply in any police encounter:
- If approached by police, stop and give them your full attention;
- Keep your hands in clear sight and avoid sudden movements;
- You are only required to provide personal identification if you are driving, carrying a gun, or placed under arrest;
- You have the right to refuse to answer questions or consent to a search;
- If you are placed under arrest, do not resist;
- You have the right to be informed of why you are being stopped or arrested;
- You have the right to an attorney and should request one immediately.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Lawyer, Even if Innocent
If you are innocent of any wrongdoing, you may think you have nothing to fear from the police or that, if arrested and charged with a crime, you will not be found guilty. Unfortunately, this is not the case.
According to the Innocence Project, an estimated one percent of the U.S. prison population was wrongly convicted. This may sound like a small amount, but it represents more than 20,000 people. Millions more are made to go through criminal court proceedings, despite being innocent of any wrongdoing.
If you are questioned by police or face any type of charges through the Tarrant County Criminal Court, do not say anything without your attorney present. Even if you are innocent, steps we can take to protect you include:
- Determining to know the underlying reasons the police want to talk to you;
- Reviewing any current or pending criminal charges and the circumstances surrounding your arrest;
- Talking to witnesses and reviewing other evidence against you;
- Advising you on what to say and making statements on your behalf;
- Making sure your rights are protected and the proper procedures are followed.
Contact Our Fort Worth Criminal Defense Attorneys to Request a Consultation
Even if you are innocent, police encounters can end badly. To protect your rights, get the Law Office of Kyle Whitaker on your side. Call 817-332-7703 or contact our Fort Worth criminal defense attorneys online and request a consultation today.