Criminal Laws in Austin and Your Rights

If you are detained by the police or other law informant officers it is important that you know what your rights are.   Anything you say to the police may be used against you in a court of law. It is crucial that you know what NOT to say or do if detained.

If you are detained by Austin police or other law enforcement officers do NOT:

• Admit you were at fault, or say you were speeding, or drinking, etc.
• Say something rude or insulting to or about the police officer
• Offer a police officer a bribe to avoid an arrest or ticket
• Complain about something the police officer has done or said
• Consent to a search other than a pat down if you are stopped
• Put your hands where the police officer cannot see them
• Refuse to cooperate
• Make a verbal threat
• Run away
• Argue

You can find a wallet sized card of advice provided by The American Civil Liberties Union on what do to if you are stopped by the police.

Miranda Rights

• You have the right to know that if you talk to the police, anything you say can be used against you in court
• The You have the right to remain silent
• Before you speak to the police, you have the right to consult with an attorney
• You have the right to have an attorney present during any questioning
• If you cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to have one appointed to you
• If you do decide to answer questions without an attorney present, you can stop answering questions at any time

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

If you were detained by the police, email or call the Austin criminal defense Law Office of Kris Davis-Jones at 888-645-3984.  We defend clients in the area of criminal law in Austin and surrounding areas in Texas including Round Rock, Pflugerville, Westlake, Lakeway, Buda, Kyle, Bastrop, Elgin, Georgetown, San Marcos, New Braunfels, Lockhart, and San Antonio.