“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law… “

Although the words are well known in criminal law, most people do not really understand their meaning. People are often unaware of their legal rights when dealing with police and criminal law. It is important to know that you (we all) have a constitutional right to remain silent and a right to an attorney.

A criminal defense lawyer at Green & Willstatter, in White Plains, can help you learn how to exercise your right to remain silent by properly advising you. If we are retained to represent you, we will contact the police to inform them that you are represented by a lawyer and put a stop to further questioning by law enforcement. Contact us to learn more about your right to remain silent.

Do not give up your rights without consulting a criminal defense attorney.

One purpose of the Miranda warnings is to inform a suspected criminal that he need not answer questions. Miranda warnings are required to inform a suspect of his right not to incriminate himself. Police read the Miranda warnings to criminal suspects before questioning can take place about the crime committed. A suspect may opt to waive his Fifth Amendment rights to remain silent. Despite the Supreme Court’s requirement that law enforcement inform suspects of their rights, people who are interrogated routinely give up their right without a moment’s thought. Detectives are expert at getting people to waive their Miranda rights and talk to them.

If You Are Arrested

If you are arrested, it is important to not fight or talk back to the police; it is a crime to resist arrest, even if you are innocent of the original charges. It is always best to tell the police you have an attorney and to ask to speak directly to that attorney prior to questioning. Always keep your lawyer’s phone number with you for handy reference. Don’t give up your fundamental right per the United States Constitution to remain silent if you are arrested. Seek the advice of a knowledgeable attorney skilled in the area of criminal defense.

Know Your Rights

Know your rights and how to protect them. Contact a New York Miranda warning lawyer at our firm today.