Police Interrogation
Being confronted by anyone involved in the criminal justice system – whether a cop or a judge – can be an intimidating experience. Police and other law enforcement are trained to remember and analyze what you say, looking for any information they can use against you—even if you misspoke. Thankfully, the U.S. Constitution guarantees your right to seek the help of a lawyer at any point, even before you have been given the Miranda warning.
Some people are not aware of their right to a lawyer, or at least the full extent of it. The police are permitted to use information they obtain from you, even before they read you your rights or decide to arrest you. Remember, just as the Miranda warnings say, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions from the police until your lawyer arrives.
Common Interrogation Tactics
When you have been arrested, the police are legally allowed to lie to you. They might pressure you with confusing or misleading questions, or make non-existent threats. They can be verbally aggressive, or attempt to manipulate your emotions. If you do face the “good cop, bad cop” routine, remember that it is an act: the “good cop” is not on your side, he is trying to win your trust so he can extract information from you.
Lawyers are trained to recognize and defend against these questions. What may seem like a harmless question to someone who is not educated in the law might actually be a carefully-designed trap. The Champaign criminal defense lawyers of Bruno Law Offices have the experience you need to defend yourself against the police.
Contact Us
To discuss your case with a lawyer, contact the Champaign criminal defense attorneys of Bruno Law Offices today at (217) 328-6000.