Thanks to TV and movies, we are all familiar with the phrase, “anything you say can be used against you in a court of law.” Unfortunately, many are not sure exactly when it’s appropriate to remain silent. You should know that before you are read your Miranda rights, those statements can be used against you.  When you are approached by a Castle Rock Police Officer or Douglas County Sheriff Deputy, most people think that there is a possibility to talk their way out of the situation. The officers will seem friendly and explain that they just want to discuss what happened and hear your side of the story. In reality, they are trying to collect admissions or statements of guilt, giving them reason to arrest you or strengthening the case against you.

Miranda Rights: But the Castle Rock Police Didn’t Read Me My Rights Right Away!

Often, potential clients feel their rights have been violated when the statements they made to police in Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Parker are used against them. They want to know how this is fair, when they weren’t read their Miranda rights before talking to police. Well, law enforcement officers are not required to read you your Miranda rights until AFTER you are under arrest. So, any statements you make before they put handcuffs on you or tell you that you are being arrested is fair game. You can talk yourself into being arrested and then those statements can be presented at trial.

Playing the Game: Law Enforcement Officers Know How to Get You to Talk

Police officers know that the minute they remind you that you have the right to remain silent, you probably will. That’s why they try and get you talking before it gets to that point. For instance, if you have been accused of a domestic violence offense, the law mandates an arrest. Meaning, it does not matter what you say, you are going to be arrested. But, the officers don’t tell you that. They want people to think they can talk and explain their way out of things – but that’s just not the case. They try and give you enough rope to hang yourself. Our advice is always to remain silent. You have no obligation to talk to the police other than to provide identifying information.

If you have been contacted by law enforcement in Castle Rock or Douglas County, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 303-265-1950. Together, we can protect your future.

Image Source: Pixabay-KlausHausmann