So, you were pulled over – it does not instantly mean you are going to jail.  Somehow, Law Enforcement has reason to believe you have just violated some law or another and they probably just want to question you.  But, you should know your rights. Guilty of the crime you are being arrested for or not, it’s very important to remain calm and cool.  Furthermore, as soon as you are able, please let the officer know that you want to speak with an Ohio lawyer.  Remember, they are watching and analyzing you during the arrest including your appearance and your body language. 

Do you know you have Miranda rights? You really should understand them and make sure your family and friends know them well.  Miranda rights give you protection under the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution. If you are in custody and the police are about to interrogate or question you, the Miranda Warning must be read to you.  (This is about the time you may want to say that you need to call your lawyer)

The Miranda Rights:

  • Your right to stay silent
  • Your right to know that anything said by you can be used against you should your case go to trial
  • Your right to legal counsel
  • Your right to have a court appointed attorney if you are not financially able to hire one

Don’t waive these rights or the police will be free to question you about any behavior. Everything you say will probably be used against you even if you think what you are saying is helping the situation.  It usually is not.  Law enforcement is almost NEVER talked out of charging someone with a crime.  Call a good Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney, now.   If you start to talk and make a statement, the officer will be more than happy to hear all that you have to say.  Normally they will record and take notes while asking for details, sometimes to trip you up.  Sometimes they say they just want to hear your side of the story; sounds innocent, but usually it’s to get you to incriminate yourself.  You could be totally innocent, but you still shouldn’t speak without a lawyer on hand. Everything you say will be saved and never erased.  Most importantly, it WILL be used against you in a court of law.

The Bottom Line:  Not many people truly understand their Miranda rights.  They get nervous when pulled over and immediately start pleading their case.  It’s normal.  Often, an arrest is made by mistake, so it would be in your best interest to contact an Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney to help the situation. Put my number in your cell, call me at anytime:  513-260-2099