When the police knock on your door, you probably ought to answer. You don’t have to answer the door, but if they’ve got a warrant, they may break the door down, so go ahead and answer the door. Now, here’s the important thing: do not answer any questions no matter what. It can never be used against you that you invoked your right to remain silent. It cannot make your situation any worse. It cannot cause you to be arrested when you wouldn’t have been arrested otherwise, and it can’t be used as evidence against you in court.
When the officer asks some questions, you may say, “Officer, I invoke my right to remain silent. I can’t answer any questions without an attorney.” Again, that can never be used against you. Now ask the officer, “Officer, do you have a warrant?” If they say they don’t have a warrant, you say, “Officer, I’m going to shut the door. I’m not going to have any conversation with you.” You can do that.
At the very beginning, the first thing officers often do is to say, “Hey, can I come in and talk with you?” Do not allow the officer to come in, and always say, “No officer, you may not come in.” At that point, the officer will let you know if they have a warrant for your arrest or a search warrant. If they do, then they should give you a copy of the warrant. Then you may allow them to come in. If they say they have a warrant for your arrest, then say, “Okay, I’ll step outside, and I’ll submit to the arrest,” let them arrest you.
But again, do not answer any questions. If they have a warrant to search your place, allow them to come in, but don’t get in the way. If there’s something particular that they’re looking for, you might want to show them where it is so that they don’t tear your place up as much. But that’s your choice; maybe they won’t find it if you don’t tell them where it is.
The first and most important thing is don’t let them come in unless they have a warrant. Don’t answer any questions, no matter what. If they have a warrant for your arrest, submit to the arrest. If they have a warrant to search your place, let them search your place.
When police knock, you can open the door but don’t answer questions. You can invoke your right to remain silent, and it will not be held against you in court. Additionally, remember to only let officers in with a warrant. If they have it, comply but it’s crucial to stay quiet. Once they start searching your house, don’t obstruct, but it is your choice to assist them. Remembering these can help you protect your rights and interests.
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