No one likes talking to police, whether they are being pulled over for drunken driving or being questioned as a witness in a criminal defense case. You have responsibilities and rights, all the time. It's always useful to get an attorney on your side.
Police Can't Always Require ID
Many individuals don't know that they aren't obligated to answer all a police officer's questions, even if they are behind the wheel. If they aren't driving, they can't be coerced to prove their identities. The U.S. Constitution applies to all citizens and gives specific protections that let you remain silent or give only a little information. You have a right not to testify or speak against yourself, and you may usually walk away if you aren't being detained or arrested.
Imagine a scenario where police think you have run afoul of the law, but you aren't guilty. This is just one situation where you should to get help from a qualified, competent attorney. Legal matters change on a regular basis, and disparate laws apply jurisdictionally. Find someone whose full-time job it is to be aware of these things for the best possible outcome to any DUI or criminal defense case.
Know When to Talk
It's best to know your rights, but you should think about the fact that usually the cops aren't out to get you. Most are good men and women, and causing trouble is most likely to trouble you in the end. You don't want to make the police feel like you hate them. This is another reason to get an attorney such as the expert lawyer at criminal attorney Hillsboro, OR on your defense team, especially during questioning. A qualified attorney in criminal defense or DUI law can help you better understand when to talk and when to keep quiet.
Cops Can't Always Do Searches Legally
Unless cops have probable cause that you have committed a crime, they can't search your house or your car without permission. Probable cause, defined in an elementary way, is a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. It's more complicated in reality, though. It's usually best to not give permission.