Law Office of William B. Bennett, P.A., St. Petersburg, FL, Right To Remain Silent

In Florida, Your Right to Remain Silent Means More Than Just Something Police Say

Most people have heard the phrase “you have the right to remain silent,” but fully understanding it is another matter. There are many situations a person may find themselves in where choosing the right to remain silent is in their best interest. Such as police pulling you over or showing up at your door, or you have been arrested and detained. Understanding and defending your rights is critical. Your criminal defense attorney is the ultimate authority to advise you through any situation where you need to exercise your right to remain silent.

The Importance of your Right to Remain silent

You do not have to wait until your rights, referred to as Miranda Rights, are read to you before you choose to be silent. You always have the right to remain silent. This essential right matters and you should know how and when to use it if the police have stopped you. One significant advantage of using your Miranda Rights is that it prevents you from incriminating yourself in a situation with the police, as whatever you say can and will be used against you.

Here Are Some Reasons Why Your Miranda Rights Are So Critical

  • You will NOT convince the police you are innocent. Most of the time, police are questioning you because of suspected wrongdoing. Remaining silent will ensure you do not implicate yourself even though police may try to coax information out of you.
  • Exercising your right to remain silent does NOT mean you are guilty. There may be a time to explain your story later but not until you have qualified criminal defense legal advice. Once you say words that can be used against you, you can’t take them back.
  • Confessing to the police does NOT benefit your situation after being arrested. You may decide to plead guilty to something, but not until your attorney has informed you of the benefits and risks. It isn’t very easy to take back a confession after making it.

If You May Have Waived Your Right To Remain Silent After Being Arrested, Contact Us For Legal Help Right Away

The right to remain silent protects you when and if you undergo police questioning or trial. If you’ve been charged with a crime and spoken to the police, make sure you contact the criminal defense team at Attorney William B. Bennett P.A.  as soon as possible to lessen any consequences. Call us at (727) 821-8000 today or contact us on our website here!

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Posted in: Criminal Defense Law, General Legal Processes