No one likes run-ins with police, whether for DUI or questions in a criminals case of any kind. You have responsibilities and rights, regardless of the crime being investigated. It's almost always valuable to get a lawyer on your side.

Identification? Not Necessarily

Many people are unaware that they aren't required by law to answer all police questions, even if they were driving. Even if you do have to prove who you are, you generally don't have to answer other questions police might have about anything like where you've been or how much you have had to drink, in the case of a DUI investigation. The U.S. Constitution protects all people and gives assurances that let you remain quiet or give only partial information. You have a right not to incriminate yourself, and you can almost always just leave if you aren't under arrest.

Imagine a scenario where police suspect you may have broken the law, but you aren't guilty. This is just one instance where you should to hire a good criminal defender. State and federal laws change regularly, and different laws apply in different areas. Find someone whose first responsibility it is to keep up on these things for your best chances in any crime, even a DUI.

Know When to Talk

While there are times for silence in the legal matters, remember that most cops really want peace and justice and would rather not take you in. You probably don't want to make police officers feel like you're against them. This is an additional reason to hire an attorney such as the expert counsel at Criminal defense attorney Vancouver WA on your side, especially during questioning. An expert attorney in criminal defense or DUI law can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.

Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally

going a step further than refusing to talk, you can refuse permission for a cop to look through your car or automobile. However, if you start to blab, leave evidence lying around, or submit to a search, any knowledge found could be used against you in court. It's probably best to say no to searches verbally and let the courts and your attorney sort it out later.