5 Things to Do If the Police Want to Question You

If the police want to question you—whether you’re stopped on the street, contacted for an interview, or approached at your home—you must protect your rights. Even if you have nothing to hide, answering police questions without legal guidance can put you at risk.

Here are five critical steps to take if law enforcement wants to question you:

1. Stay Calm and Be Respectful

Interacting with police can be stressful, but staying calm is essential. Arguing or resisting—even if you know you’ve done nothing wrong—can escalate the situation.

✔ Be polite but firm.
✔ Do not run or resist, even if you believe you are being treated unfairly.
✔ Do not lie, but remember, you don’t have to answer questions.

❌ Do NOT try to “explain” your way out of the situation. Anything you say can be used against you.

2. Ask: "Am I Free to Leave?"

If the police approach you, ask: "Am I being detained, or am I free to go?"

✔ If they say you are free to leave, walk away quietly and immediately.
✔ If they say you are not free to leave, you are being detained. At that point, you should stop talking and request a lawyer.

❌ Do NOT assume you must stay just because an officer is asking questions. If you are not under arrest, you do not have to remain.

3. Do NOT Answer Questions Without a Lawyer

You have a constitutional right to remain silent—use it. Police are trained to get people to talk, and even innocent statements can be misinterpreted.

✔ Clearly say: "I am invoking my right to remain silent, and I want a lawyer."
✔ After invoking your rights, do not answer any further questions.
✔ If you are under arrest, do not discuss your case with anyone except your lawyer.

❌ Do NOT try to “clarify” things or tell your side of the story. Anything you say can be twisted and used against you.

4. Do NOT Consent to a Search

The police may ask to search your home, car, or belongings. You have the right to refuse unless they have a warrant.

✔ Politely say: "I do not consent to a search."
✔ If they claim to have a warrant, ask to see it but do not interfere.
✔ If they search without a warrant or your consent, do not resist, but take mental notes for your lawyer.

❌ Do NOT assume refusing a search makes you look guilty. It protects your rights.

5. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

If the police want to question you, do not go in alone—always have a lawyer present.

✔ You have the right to an attorney, even if you have not been arrested.
✔ If you cannot afford a lawyer, ask for a public defender.
✔ Your lawyer will protect your rights and prevent you from making self-incriminating statements.

❌ Do NOT assume hiring a lawyer makes you look guilty. It makes you smart.

Final Word: Silence Is Your Best Defense

Many people think, “If I just explain, everything will be fine.” That is a dangerous mistake. The police are not trying to clear your name; they are trying to gather evidence.

✔ Stay silent.
✔ Do not sign anything.
✔ Do not answer questions without a lawyer.

If the police contact you for questioning, call Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP immediately at (508) 897-0001. Your rights and your future may depend on it.

Joshua Wood, Esq.
Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP
1342 Belmont Street, Suite 102 Brockton, MA 02301