Tattnall Criminal Attorney

If you are stopped in Tattnall County, Georgia, you must understand your rights. Jack Downie, a Tattnall County, Georgia criminal defence attorney, wants to make sure you’re prepared for any eventuality. Knowing your rights before being stopped can help you decide what you should and shouldn’t do or say. When police stop you, they do not have to inform you of their inquiry. You may believe it is only a traffic ticket, but it might be a DUI inquiry, drug possession, drug sales, drug trafficking, or another criminal offence.

The first thing you should do is decide whether you are being detained or willingly conversing with the authorities. Officers do not need legal reasons to speak with someone who voluntarily engages, but they must have reasonable suspicion of a crime before detaining you. It’s a good idea to ask the police if you are free to leave. While they may not inform you, this can be used as a defence if you are arrested.

Second, you are not obligated to answer questions about your origins or destinations. These questions are more than just chit-chat; they are intended to gather information. If you claim to be travelling to or from a criminally active location, you may face increased scrutiny. It’s wise to respectfully deny an answer and ask if you can go. If the police continues, exercise your right to speak only with an attorney by contacting Tattnall County criminal defence lawyer Jack Downie .

Third, you are not required to consent to a search of your car or goods. Officers can pat you down for firearms, but they cannot force you to empty your pockets. If an officer tells you that they are going to search your automobile, make it obvious that you do not consent. If they persist, ask if they are requesting permission or telling you of the search.

Finally, when requested, you must provide proof of insurance, driver’s license, and registration. Failure to do so may result in an arrest or a traffic penalty. Arguing with the officer may merely prolong the interaction.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have been arrested, please call Jack Downie for a private case examination. If you are arrested for DUI in Georgia, you have a limited time to appeal the suspension of your driver’s license. Similarly, there are stringent time limits for filing motions in other criminal cases. Contact us immediately!