How to Conduct Yourself If You Are Stopped by a Police Officer

 Posted on December 27, 2016 in Criminal Defense

The majority of police officers are good and rational human beings. Nonetheless, police brutality, aggression, and confrontational behavior does exist. Knowing how to handle such situations should you ever experience one, is critical. In fact, in some situations, it could very well save your life. At the very least, an understanding of your Constitutional rights and thoughtful action can help reduce the risk of a wrongful arrest, wrongfully filed charges and wrongful conviction. The following explains further.

Understanding Your Risk

Anyone can experience police brutality or aggression. However, there are some groups who are at an increased risk. For example, African American males are three times more likely to be killed by an officer of the law than any other race. Further compounding this issue is that African-American men are far more likely to be stopped by a police officer than other racial groups. Whoever you are, it is critical that you understand how you can attempt to de-escalate a situation and protect your rights.

Protecting Your Rights and Safety

Dealing with an aggressive or confrontational officer can be a frightening experience. However, it is critical that you maintain calm in such situations. Any aggression on your part can escalate the issue even further. No matter what happens, no matter how bad things get, do not engage. Be polite. Speak as little as possible. This is especially important since officers are legally allowed to lie to you and attempt to manipulate you into incriminating yourself. Do not answer questions without an attorney present. If an officer continues to push you for answers, politely tell the officer that you do not answer questions without an attorney present.

If you find yourself in a situation where the officer will not let you go, politely ask if you are being detained. If the officer says no, then thank him or her and walk away. If you are being detained, then let the officer know that you are grabbing your identification. Do so slowly and make sure you ask for an attorney as soon as the officer has finished reading you your rights. Again, above all else, remain calm.

Contact Our Milwaukee Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, it is important that you seek quality legal assistance. Backed by more than 40 years of experience, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP has the skills and knowledge needed to aggressively represent you in your case. We will protect your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome possible for your situation. Schedule your consultation with our Milwaukee criminal defense lawyers by calling (414) 271-1440 today.

Sources:

http://abcnews.go.com/US/powerful-mannequin-challenge-video-focused-police-brutality-viral/story?id=43469138

https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/fatal-police-shootings-in-2015-approaching-400-nationwide/2015/05/30/d322256a-058e-11e5-a428-c984eb077d4e_story.html

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/national/2015/08/08/black-and-unarmed/

http://www.liberalamerica.org/2015/07/11/10-tips-survive-crazy-cop-matthew-cooke-may-just-save-life/#ifrndnloc