How to Respond When Pulled Over by Police

It’s always a little unnerving to see those red and blue lights behind you on the road. But it’s important to keep your cool and make wise decisions any time you’re dealing with the law. They have the power, it’s true–but you have rights, too.

Do Not Speak

Remember that anything you say could later be used against you. The officer may ask you to tell them where you were, where you were going, or may ask other questions to supposedly give you the chance to tell them your explanation of events. Don’t do it! You are required to tell the officer only a few things:

• Your name (precisely as it is printed on your driver’s license or your birth certificate to avoid any issues);
• Your birth date;
• Your address;
• Your phone number;
• Your parents’ contact information if you are a minor.

Ask if you are free to go. If not, you must be read your Miranda Rights at that point. Then say that you are asserting your right to remain silent and you’d like to speak to an attorney. They are not allowed to question you further at that point.

Do Not Lie

You can be charged under Nevada Statute 207.280 with providing false information if you decide to tell a lie.

Do Not Resist Arrest

There are any number of charges that could be tacked on depending on the circumstances.

Do Not Give Permission to Search Your Vehicle

Who knows what’s in your car? Maybe a friend dropped a joint in there weeks ago that you don’t know about. If the officer is convinced that you have contraband, there still needs to be probable cause or a warrant to conduct a search, so never comply.

Is it a Traffic Violation?

If the officer asks if you know why you were stopped, always say that you have no idea. Otherwise, you’re essentially admitting that you committed a traffic violation. If asked how fast you were driving, say that you were going the posted speed limit. If you’re accused of a specific offense, such as going through a red light, simply apologize and say that you didn’t realize that had happened.

If You’ve Been Drinking

Stick with the previous tips, and if asked to take a field sobriety test, politely decline. You are not legally required to comply with this request, and you could have difficulty passing it for any number of reasons not related to being drunk. Instead, ask to leave. If you can’t leave, ask to speak to your attorney.

Your Legal Advocate 

The experienced Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys at Lobo Law will work to keep you out of jail and avoid criminal convictions.  To discuss your situation, schedule a confidential consultation in our Las Vegas office today.

Source:

leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-207.html#NRS207Sec280