For many, interactions with the police can be overwhelming and nerve-wracking. As such, it is imperative to understand your legal options in these matters, as well as what you can expect when undergoing a police interrogation. The following blog explores what you should know when interrogated by police, as well as your legal rights and the importance of working with a Sacramento criminal defense lawyer to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
What Are the Different Types of Police Interactions?
Generally, when you are asked to sit for an interview with the police, it is often for one of two purposes: to gain general information about a crime or in the hopes of obtaining a confession or otherwise incriminating information.
For example, if you are asked to sit for an interview with the police because you witnessed a crime occur, the police are simply looking for information about the crime that can help them determine a timeline or provide insight into the actual actions that occurred. Generally, these are voluntary and do not mean you are involved in the crime.
However, in many instances, when the police have reason to believe that someone is involved in a crime, they may be interrogated by the police. This is an intense line of questioning with the purpose of trying to elicit as much information as possible to secure a conviction. Interrogations can occur for suspects of a crime, as well as those who have been arrested and charged for their involvement in a crime.
What Can I Expect During an Interrogation?
When you are interrogated in relation to a crime, it generally means the police suspect that you are the perpetrator of or involved with a crime. As such, you will be subject to an intense line of questioning in the hopes that you provide information that incriminates you or you provide a confession.
During the interrogation, the police will use a number of tactics to elicit information from you. They will try to build rapport with you, such as the classic “good cop, bad cop” routine, in which one will appear to be more sympathetic to your circumstances in the hopes of gaining your trust. Another method is to lie, and tell you they have damning evidence against you. It is not illegal for the police to fabricate the strength of evidence against you or claim your partner incriminated you.
It’s imperative to know that when you are brought in for any form of questioning by the police, even if they do not explicitly inform you that you are a suspect, you have the right to an attorney as well as the right to remain silent. This means you should refrain from answering any questions until you have spoken to your criminal defense attorney. Additionally, if the police ask to search your residence, you should decline. Without a warrant, probable cause, or your consent, the police cannot legally search your property.
At the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, we understand how difficult these matters can be to navigate. That is why we will do everything in our power to help guide you through the criminal justice system to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. When you need help, our dedicated firm is here. Contact us today to learn how we can represent you.
