If you are arrested in Indiana, you may not know what to do. The police will certainly want to interrogate you once you are brought to the police station. However, you have the right to remain silent, and you should take full advantage of that right. It’s important to know why.
Why should you exercise your right to remain silent?
Invoking your right to remain silent after an arrest can benefit you. When you stay silent instead of answering questions from the police, you are not giving them any information that can later be used against you. While the situation might be daunting and frightening, it allows you to avoid making things worse. You may have a better criminal defense when you choose to remain silent.
You’re not obligated to speak to the police
Even when the police arrest you and take you into custody, you have certain rights under criminal law. One of those rights is your right to remain silent. If the arresting officer doesn’t tell you about your Miranda rights, which include the mention of having the right to remain silent, you can use that as part of your defense.
In some cases, the police might try to get you to speak even if you have chosen to exercise your right to remain silent. Don’t feel bullied or swayed. Stand your ground and be clear when you tell the police that you are not going to speak or answer their questions. You can say one of the following lines:
- I’m invoking my right to remain silent.
- I want to speak to an attorney.
- I’m invoking my Miranda rights.
- I’m not going to talk to you.
- I’m staying silent.
Seeking legal assistance
If you have been arrested on any criminal charges, an attorney may help you protect your rights and counsel you on how to proceed in your case. An attorney may be able to build a defense that works in your favor.
