The police pull over hundreds of people every day for issues ranging from speeding to driving dangerously. Whenever a person is pulled over, there are a few things that criminal lawyers in Burlington, VT will suggest they do to keep the situation from escalating to an arrest and to needing to hire a criminal lawyer for assistance.
Speak As Little As Possible
Many people tend to speak a little bit too much when they’re nervous. In social situations, this is fine, but it’s not a good idea when stopped by the police. They might admit to running a stop sign when the officer only saw them speeding. Worse, they might admit to having a few drinks and end up with a DUI when they were only suspected of a minor traffic infraction. The less a person says, the better.
Comply with the Officer’s Directions
Another issue that often occurs is when a person does not follow the officer’s directions or tries to argue with them. This can lead to an arrest even though the person was only going to receive a ticket if they had just followed directions. If a person is under arrest and still does not follow directions, they could have further charges against them by the time they arrive at the jail.
Do Not Allow a Search of the Vehicle
Many people believe they shouldn’t avoid a search because that looks suspicious. Actually, it is their right to decline a search. If they let the officer search the vehicle and anything is found, they could be arrested and charged with a crime. If, however, they do not allow the search and the officer searches the vehicle anyways, it might be possible to have any evidence from the search dismissed and any subsequent charges dropped.
Following these tips may help you avoid an arrest. However, if you were pulled over and arrested for something you are accused of doing or because the officers found something in your vehicle during a search, you’ll need to speak with one of the criminal lawyers in Burlington, VT right away. Contact Jason J. Sawyer, Attorney & Counselor at Law now.
