Imagine this: You’re going about your day when suddenly, you get a voicemail from a detective asking you to come in for questioning. Or perhaps they show up at your home or workplace, leaving a business card and requesting a callback. Your heart races, and a flood of questions rush through your mind. What do you do next?
It’s natural to feel anxious when you get a call from a detective. But remember, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to navigate this situation without support. It’s crucial to take a step back and think about your next move carefully.
Detectives might reach out for several reasons. Maybe there was a heated argument with a significant other that got out of hand, or perhaps a night out led to misunderstandings about consent. Sometimes, it can feel like the request to come in for questioning comes out of nowhere, and you might have no clue why they’re interested in talking to you. Regardless of the situation, one thing is clear: this isn’t a social call. The detective considers you a person of interest or a suspect and is gathering information to potentially build a case.
One of the most powerful tools at your disposal is your Fifth Amendment right, which protects you from self-incrimination. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a constitutional safeguard. Yet, so many people willingly give up this right, thinking they’re doing the “right thing” by cooperating fully without legal counsel.
I remember watching an episode of The First 48 where a suspect, under pressure, ends up confessing after being offered a meal and a cigarette. It’s a reminder of how vulnerable one can be in such situations. Knowing your rights can prevent you from inadvertently incriminating yourself.
Before you step into a police station to give a statement, contact a criminal defense attorney. This step is vital for several reasons:
Walking into an interrogation room without legal counsel is like stepping onto an adversary’s home turf. It’s designed to be intimidating, and detectives are trained to extract information that could be used against you. Having an attorney means you’re not alone in that room, figuratively or literally. You have someone who knows the law and can navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system with you.
Detectives might try to persuade you to give a statement by promising leniency or a lighter sentence. Remember, it’s not their job to negotiate deals. That responsibility lies with the district attorney. Any promises made by the detective are not binding and are often just tactics to get you to talk.
When a detective contacts you for a statement:
By taking these steps, you’re putting yourself in the best possible position to handle the situation effectively. Remember, it’s about being smart and protecting your future.
If you found this information helpful, show some love by liking this article and sharing it with others who might benefit. Stay informed, stay protected, and remember—you have the power to navigate this situation successfully.
Jamahl Kersey is a distinguished criminal defense attorney and the principal attorney at Kersey Law, a boutique law firm in San Diego. With a focus on criminal defense, Jamahl has built a reputation for his unwavering dedication to protecting his clients' rights and securing favorable outcomes in complex cases. Known for his strategic approach and thorough understanding of the law, he has successfully defended clients against various charges, including sex crimes and other serious offenses.
Beyond his legal practice, Jamahl is committed to supporting his community and providing educational resources to help individuals understand their legal rights. He regularly engages in discussions about criminal justice reform and is passionate about empowering young people to navigate potential legal challenges. Jamahl's dedication to his clients and community has established him as a trusted advocate and leader in the San Diego legal community.
In just 1 hour, you’ll have a clear, actionable plan to turn your defense into an unstoppable force that can give you the most favorable outcome for your case (no obligation to move forward!).
