What to do During a DUI Stop
It's wise to believe that police want what's best for everyone, but it's a good idea to be familiar with your rights. Police have a great deal of power - to take away our choices and, sometimes, even our lives. If you are being questioned in a criminal defense case or investigated for a DUI or another crime, make sure you are protected by an attorney.
Police Can Require Your ID Only if You're a Suspect
Many citizens are not aware that they don't have to answer all an officer's questions, even if they are behind the wheel. If they aren't driving, they don't always have to show ID either. The law applies to all citizens and gives special protections that provide you the option to remain quiet or give only some information. You have a right not to testify or speak against yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't being detained or arrested.
Even though it's good to have a basic education about your rights, you should hire a lawyer who knows all the implications of the law so you're able to protect yourself fully. Knowing all the laws and understanding the different situations where they apply should be left up to qualified attorneys. Furthermore, laws often get changed during legislative sessions, and courts are constantly making further changes.
Sometimes You Should Talk to Police
It's good to know your rights, but you should realize that usually the officers aren't out to hurt you. Most are good people like you, and causing an issue is most likely to hurt you in the end. You don't want to make the police feel like you hate them. This is yet one more reason to work with an attorney such as the expert counsel at criminal justice lawyer vancouver wa on your side, especially during questioning. A good attorney in criminal defense or DUI law can help you know when to be quiet.
Question Permission to Search
Unless the police have probable cause that you are engaging in criminal behavior, they can't search your house or your car without permission. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence everywhere, or give your OK a search, any data found could be used against you in future criminal defense proceedings. It's probably good to deny permission for searches verbally and then get out of the way.