Could the Police Be Investigating You?

by Seth Blum in Criminal Defense

If you think you may be under investigation by the police, there are several signs you can watch for that could indicate your hunch is correct. It is important to remember that you have rights, including the right to representation, the right to remain silent, and the right to avoid self-incrimination. If you believe you are under criminal investigation, contact an attorney from Kurtz & Blum, PLLC, as soon as possible to discuss your next steps. 

Am I Under Police Investigation?

The most common sign that you are being investigated for a crime is a phone call, a voicemail, or a card left at your residence from someone in law enforcement. This generally indicates that you are either under investigation or that the police want to talk with you about an investigation. (It could also indicate that law enforcement believes you were a witness to an alleged crime.)

Another sign to look for is if a friend, coworker, or someone else you know was contacted by police requesting information about you. It’s fair to assume the police want to speak with people you interact with for official reasons. This points to a criminal investigation.

What Should I Do If I’m Under Police Investigation?

If you find out you are the target of a police investigation, remember that anything you say can and will be used against you. Police can take what you say and make it sound like you’re guilty even when you’re innocent. Just trying to explain yourself could lead to criminal charges. If police come to your door, it’s best to politely say you won’t speak with them until your criminal defense lawyer is present.

Police may try to trick you in order to make you answer questions. Although they can’t legally use physical or psychological coercion, they can prod you into answering their questions with the replies they need in order to charge you. The courts have approved the police tactic of lying to try to trick you into saying something that makes you look guilty. And you are not allowed to lie to them. Lying to the police is a crime ─ even if you are innocent of the thing for which they are investigating you. 

If you provide information to the police without a lawyer present, it could harm your future defense. You have now guarantee of getting “credit” for the information you provide to the police without an attorney advocating for your interests. You are much better off having a lawyer talk to the police for you.

What Are My Rights?

It’s critical to know your rights when you are under investigation. Remember that you have:

  • The right to leave (if you are not under arrest)
  • The right to remain silent
  • The right against illegal search and seizure
  • The right to privacy
  • The right to defense

Types of Evidence

Regardless of why the police are investigating you, it’s critical that you save all evidence that could be valuable for your case. Taking these early steps may help the final outcome of your case. 

Useful evidence in your defense could include:

  • Photographs
  • Text messages
  • Voicemails
  • Emails
  • Receipts or other documentation of your whereabouts

Contact a Raleigh Criminal Defense Lawyer 

The moment you find out that you are the target of a police investigation, call the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Kurtz & Blum, PLLC. Don’t believe what the police tell you. Instead, tell them you will only speak with them if your lawyer is present. Contact our firm today to get a knowledgeable Raleigh criminal defense lawyer on your side.