Robert A. Loeb Criminal Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Your Rights If You Have Been Arrested

Monday, November 30, 2009 by Robert A. Loeb

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If you are the target of a police investigation, a criminal defense attorney in Chicago will tell you that knowing your rights beforehand is essential.

If you have been arrested:
  • You have the right to remain silent.
  • Police may not interrogate you if you are alone and you indicate in any way that you do not wish to be questioned.
  • You have the right to talk to a Chicago criminal defense lawyer before you answer any questions.
  • You have the right to have an attorney appointed if you cannot afford one.
  • All questioning must cease if you indicate that you wish to speak a lawyer.
  • You have the right to an itemized receipt for all money and property taken from you after you are taken into custody.
  • Within a reasonable amount time after you have been arrested, you have the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls.

You should seek out criminal defense in Chicago if you suspect your rights have been violated.

Rights in your home

You have the right to deny police entry into your home until they have a search warrant.Experienced Chicago criminal defense lawyers will tell you that the warrant must:

  • Have the signature of a judge
  • Be presented to you before the search is conducted
  • Specify the place and/or person to be searched and the property for which the officers are searching
Rights in your car

If you are stopped by a police officer, you must show your license, registration, and proof of insurance if you are asked to provide these documents. While the police can ask you and your passengers to exit the vehicle, no one is required to answer any questions. In addition, the police cannot search your car without your consent or without probable cause for criminal activity.

For further questions and information regarding your rights, you should seek out a Chicago criminal defense firm.

 
Posted at 11:23 AM
Topic: Criminal Law
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