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The Whole Truth About Talking to Police
When people are accused of something bad, their initial impulse is often to explain, to narrate how things appear from their perspective, to present an argument that sounds rational. I get it. But what I can tell you is: don’t. Staying silent isn’t suspicious. It’s smart.
There’s a Fifth Amendment for a Reason
You have the right to remain silent, and it is one of your best legal resources. That’s what the police are there to do: get you talking so they can collect information, but everything you say outside your home is potentially damning. Even innocent individuals can undermine their case by trying to seem helpful.
What Silence Actually Means
Silence doesn’t indicate guilt; it means discipline. If I represent only those clients who kept silent, it affords me the luxury of narrating from a place of strength. Once you say something, it can’t be unsaid, even when the other person has misunderstood.
Common Mistakes I See
We all have the same idea: The truth will set us free. Unfortunately, that’s not how the system works. Facts don’t always cohere neatly in a police report. Wait until you have representation; that’s when your story can be told and represented accurately and safely.
Protecting Yourself Early
Respectfully tell the officer: “I’d like to remain silent and I want to speak with my lawyer.“ One sentence can save you from pointless pain. I would rather have to explain your silence than undo a statement spoken in panic.
The Smarter Choice
I say the same thing to every client: You may think silence is a sign of defeat; it’s actually strategic. It demonstrates that you are serious about protecting your rights and your future.
Call (810) 337-1800, or visit attorneyperryman. com before speaking another word to the police.
