Communication with Authority

Communication with Authority

 Is there a difference between what you should do if you are questioned or arrested by the police and what your parents taught you?

 

The short answer is – maybe.  It is a common occurrence to have someone questioned or arrested and simply spill their guts to the officer.  The theory is that I was taught to be honest and tell the truth – so I did.  There really is noting wrong with this approach so long as you don’t care if you will have a criminal record for the rest of your life, maybe go to jail or prison, spend many days in court, spend a bunch of money on fines, court costs, and legal fees, and maybe ruin your chances of getting a good job or even working in the profession you have always dreamed about.

 

We live in America, and we all have certain rights and responsibilities.  The U.S. Constitution and the Washington State Constitution, give each of us certain rights when we are confronted with a police interrogation or arrest.  It is your right to exercise those constitutional rights, and if you choose to ignore them, you need to accept the consequences.

 

There is no good reason not to be polite to a police officer, and if he or she asks your name or wants to see your identification – be a responsible citizen and cooperate.  If, however, the encounter goes any further, you need to keep in mind that despite what the officer or anyone else tells you, everything you say will be used against you.  You have a right to remain silent – use it!  You have the right to talk to an attorney – use it!

 

It is my opinion that you are not violating the principals and morals imparted to you by your parents if you elect to exercise your constitutional rights.  Our founding fathers fought hard for these rights – use them!