If you've watched police movies or read crime thrillers, you've no doubt heard of Miranda Rights quite frequently. They're the rights that the police have to read to you when you're being arrested. They're so commonplace that almost everyone knows they exist but do you really know what they are? To ensure that you do, they are as follows:
-- Remaining silent.
You don't have to talk to the police during the arrest, no matter what they ask you. When you're told that you can stay silent, you'll also be notified that statements you do make are on the record and can be used in court.
-- A lawyer.
Even if you don't have a lawyer when you're arrested, you have a legal right to one. The police can interrogate you without one, but not if you tell them that you won't answer questions without your attorney. You have a right to work with your lawyer during the interrogation. Everyone, no matter what he or she can afford, has this same right.
-- Stopping an interrogation.
As noted, the police may start the interrogation without your lawyer. If at any time, you invoke your right to a lawyer or to remain silent, they then have to stop questioning you. They can't hound you to try to get an answer before your attorney arrives, for example.
Have you been arrested? This can be a stressful time, when you may feel like you're in well over your head -- especially if it's never happened before. The key is to stay calm, remember your rights and understand what legal steps you can take.
If the police breach your rights, then it's critical that you know your legal options immediately. For those who want to learn more, our website contains a lot of helpful information.