The Law Office of Mahmoud R. Rabah Outlines Your Rights on Police Stops

August 19, 2015 - Being approached by a police officer is never a comforting feeling. However, knowing your rights when stopped by the police is the first step towards alleviating these feelings of fear and confusion. Make sure you know how to protect your rights with help from The Law Office of Mahmoud R. Rabah.

Typically, the first thing an officer will do upon approaching you is begin asking you a series of questions. Even if you are not suspected of any wrongdoing, an office does have the right to ask you these questions. At any point you feel uncomfortable with your situation, you are entitled to ask if you are free to go. Doing so in a calm and collected matter can help you avoid more trying situations.

If the officer tells you that you are not free to go, you are being stopped or detained. This means that the officer has some sort of reasonable suspicion you have committed, are committing or are about to commit a crime. At this point, officers will use what you say against you, so speak only when you are comfortable and keep your responses brief.

Frisks and searches are generally the next step in the process. Frisks are only permitted if an officer has reasonable suspicion that you are armed and they are in danger, while searches require more evidence that you have committed a crime, are armed or are concealing contraband. You do not have to consent to any search or frisk, and you should audibly and calmly make these feelings heard by calmly stating "I do not consent to this search."

Should you be in a vehicle when the search begins, you are still entitled to certain rights. Again, an officer must have probable cause to search the inside the car or take a look at the trunk of your vehicle. In most cases, If a cop comes to your house you do not have to let them in unless they have a warrant signed by a judge. However, there are some special circumstances in which a cop may be permitted to enter your home without a warrant.

If at any point in the exchange you are arrested and read your Miranda Rights or are under arrest, you no longer have to speak to the officers and have the right to request legal representation before any further questioning begins.

Knowing your rights when a police officer approaches you is a big part of alleviating the emotions of these stressful encounters. Make sure you know what to do if the police approach you by visiting http://rabahdefense.com/news/police-stops-a-guide-to-understand-your-rights-video/.

If you are arrested, or feel your rights have been violated during an encounter with the police, don't hesitate to reach out to The Law Office of Mahmoud R. Rabah. Through years of criminal practice and advocacy, Mr. Rabah is your champion in the courtroom in terms of protecting your rights and maintaining your innocence. Contact Mr. Rabah for all of your criminal defense needs by visiting rabahdefense.com.