When Do I Need A Lawyer?

Flex Your Rights

I’m gonna remain silent, I’d like to see a lawyer!

If you’re being interrogated or you’re under arrest, these magic words are your best legal protection.  They’re kind of like a legal condom.  Don’t get tricked if police pressure you to snitch, you need a lawyer so use the magic words: Officer, I’m gonna remain silent I like to see a lawyer.

Remember just because you asked for a lawyer doesn’t mean they have to stop questioning you.  If you keep talking your words might still be used against you so shut your mouth until you’ve seen a lawyer.

When do you actually get a lawyer?

That depends, if you keep your mouth shut you might not even need one but if you’re arrested and charged with a crime you need help.  If you can’t afford a lawyer one will be appointed for you by the court.  The point is that you can’t talk your way out of a police interrogation without a lawyer.  That’s a big mistake and almost anything you say to the police can and will be used against you in court.

What if the police try to make you sign a confession or something?

Don’t sign anything without a lawyer and don’t rely on the police to explain what it says – read it for yourself.  Usually the only document that’s safe to sign is the promise to appear in court.

  Social Share