If you’re under suspicion for criminal wrongdoing, then it’s only a matter of time before the police come knocking, looking to ask you questions. You’re under no obligation to speak to them, even if you’re arrested and subsequently interrogated. That said, many individuals make the mistake of interacting with the police during a criminal investigation. And when they do, they make additional mistakes in what they say to investigators, sometimes to the point that their errors lead to their conviction.
That’s why in this post we want to look at some of the costlier mistakes that can be made when interacting with law enforcement. That way if you do come face-to-face with investigators, you know how best to handle the situation and avoid saying something that could put you behind the 8-ball in a criminal prosecution.
Avoid these mistakes if you have to interact with the police
Again, if you’re a suspect in a criminal investigation, you’re better off avoiding interactions with the police until your attorney can advise you otherwise in light of your rights. That said, if the police bring you in for questioning, you should be sure to avoid the following mistakes that could prove costly to your criminal defense:
- Voluntarily providing information: If you’re going to answer questions posed by the police, then you should be sure to only provide information that’s relevant to that question. If you volunteer additional information, then you might be handing the police the evidence they need to charge you and that the prosecution needs to convict you. Don’t provide the police with more information than they’re requesting.
- Lying about the facts: In the heat of the moment, it might seem like fibbing on a few details won’t hurt the investigation while at the same time protecting your interests. But lying to the police can lead to additional criminal charges, and it will probably make you look more guilty of the underlying crime. Don’t think that you can pull the wool over the police’s eyes. They’ll probably find out if you’re lying, so you’re better off being honest or not talking to them at all.
- Failing to ask if you can leave: A lot of accused individuals make the mistake of thinking that they’re required to talk to the police. This is especially true when they’re taken to the police station and placed in an interview room. But if you’re not in custody, then you should be free to leave. Of course, the police won’t come out and say that, since they want to get you talking and keep you talking. So, if you’re finished talking to the police, then be sure to ask if you’re free to leave.
- Thinking that the police can and will help you: Investigators might make it seem like they’re out to help clear your name, but they’re really looking to see if they can pin the crime on you. So, don’t play along with their niceties. Be sure to see their true motivations so that you don’t make a costly mistake that could lead to your conviction.
Don’t be your own worst enemy when developing your criminal defense
You have to be careful as you navigate the criminal justice system. If you’re not, then you could step into a pitfall that poses a serious threat to your freedom and your future. That’s why now is the time to start thinking through the best way to develop a strong criminal defense and protect your interests as fully as possible.
