What should you do if you are pulled over? 

If you are pulled over or arrested contact your lawyer 

1. NEVER grant permission to the police (or anyone else) to search your house, car, bags/luggage, person or any other property.

2. During a traffic stop, do not answer questions that are not related to the stop, such as where are you coming from or where you are going, if you are carrying large sums of cash, where you work, or what the purpose of your travel is. If the officer persists with these questions, tell him you want to speak with your attorney. If the officer tells you that you are free to go, then LEAVE. Do not agree to stay and answer more questions.

3. If a police officer asks you to exit your car, roll your window up, exit the car and immediately close the car door. Lock the car door and place your keys in your pocket. If passengers are asked to exit the car, tell them to do the same thing.

4. If an officer begins talking to you on the street, ask the officer if you are being detained. If the officer says no, then tell the officer you do not want to speak to him and leave the area. If you are told you are being detained or are under arrest, NEVER answer any questions. Tell the officer you are remaining silent and that you want to speak to your attorney immediately.

5. If the police knock on your door, step outside and CLOSE the door behind you while you find out why they are there. NEVER consent to any search. If the police have a search warrant, stand aside and remain silent other than to say you want to contact your attorney immediately.

6. If you are placed into the back of a police car with your passengers/friends/family members, and the police officer walks away, KEEP YOUR MOUTH CLOSED! More than likely you are being recorded.

7. Password protect your cell phone. Do not give your password to the police. If a police officer demands to know your cell phone password, demand to speak to an attorney. As a further precaution to safeguard your privacy, delete all text and voice messages that you do not need.

What is probable cause? 

Probable cause is the legal standard by which a police officer has the right to make an arrest, conduct a personal or property search, or obtain a warrant for arrest. While many factors contribute to a police officer’s level of authority in a given situation, probable cause requires facts or evidence that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a suspect has committed a crime.

What is reasonable suspicion? 

Reasonable suspicion is the legal standard by which a police officer has the right to briefly detain a suspect for investigatory purposes and frisk the outside of their clothing for weapons, but not drugs. While many factors contribute to a police officer’s level of authority in a given situation, the reasonable suspicion standard requires facts or circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe that a suspect has, is, or will commit a crime.