When you’re arrested, the police will advise you on your right to silence, which protects you from self-incrimination. However, most people don’t adhere to this advice. Once arrested, it’s important to remember that talking to the police and answering any questions they ask won’t help you.
Even when you’ve been arrested, it’s crucial that you never answer any questions the police ask you, especially if they suspect you’ve committed a crime. Below are a few reasons you should not attempt talking to the police, even if you’re innocent:
Talking to the police won’t make a difference
You can never talk your way out of an arrest. You cannot convince the police you’re innocent and get them to take off the handcuffs.
You run the risk of incriminating yourself
Plus, any information you share with the police can be introduced into evidence and that can hurt your defense down the line. Even if you’re innocent and you only tell the police the truth, there is still a grave chance that the police can use the information you give them to convict you.
You can accidentally tell a white lie
When the police are questioning you without the presence of a lawyer, you can easily get carried away and tell a white lie. Keep in mind that interrogations can be stressful, and you may find yourself giving the police explanations about your ties to the case. Such answers may be enough to make you appear guilty of a crime (or get you charged with obstructing justice).
Not talking to the police doesn’t make you look guilty
The Fifth Amendment protects you from recriminations for refusing to speak to the police without your lawyer present. Therefore, you’re not obliged to provide the police with any information that may be self-incriminating.
If you’ve been charged with a crime, explore your defense options right away.