Police Interrogation: Understanding Your Right to Silence

POLICE INTERROGATION: UNDERSTANDING YOUR RIGHT TO SILENCE The right to silence is your right to refuse to give information, answer questions, or the right to say nothing. The Police have the right to ask questions about a crime, but you don't have the legal obligation to answer them. Here are some of the common questions regarding the right to silence: WILL I LOOK GUILTY IE I DON'T ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE POLICE? You have the right to remain silent and the Police cannot take it against you invoke this right. you if WOULD IT BE BETTER IF IANSWER SOME OF THE QUESTIONS? No, agreeing to answer some questions and denying to answer others can make your situation worse. WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS CAN EXPECT FROM THE POLICE? The Police will want details from the scene. Expect questions confirming the people involved and asking you for details about what happened. IS IT OKAY TO GIVE THE POLICE MY NAME AND ADDRESS? Your name and address are one of the few exceptions to the right of silence. Refusing to give these details is an offence. IS IT BETTER IF I JUST GO THROUGH THE INTERROGATION? ... There are times when agreeing to an interview works in your best interest, and a lawyer can help you confirm when it is advisable to agree to one. IF I AM A WITNESS, DO I HAVE THE RIGHT TO SILENCE? Yes. Even if you are a witness to the crime, you have the right to silence. You have no legal obligation to report a crime or answer questions from the Police. TIP: However, things are different if the crime is a serious offence. In case you witnessed a serious crime, refusing to assist will lead to prosecution for Concealing. Police interviews and interrogations sound intimidating, however, you need to remember that you have the right to silence. You must be mindful of what you say or what you decide to do. It is best that you speak with your lawyer before making any decisions.