Table of Contents
Do you have to attend a police interview?
A voluntary police interview or interview under caution is a formal conversation with police that usually takes place at a police station. You do not have to attend and you can leave at any time once the interview has begun.
Can you decline a voluntary police interview?
The right to refuse a voluntary police interview You can refuse to partake as it’s a ‘voluntary’ interview, however, a refusal to attend could prompt the police to arrest you, where you will need to give a “standard interview” in custody.
What are my rights in a police interview?
The Right of Silence The police will caution you at the start of the interview by saying: You do not have to say anything. But it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.
Can I record my own police interview?
Yes, you do have the right to record your interview yourself. However, all police departments have audio and video cameras in the Interview Rooms, and all interviews MUST be recorded by the Police anyways.
Do I have to go to a voluntary police interview?
Do I have to answer police questions that they ask me?
As such, it gives you the right to refuse to answer questions that a police officer asks you. However, there are two exceptions to this rule. Although you do not need to answer any further questions asked in either scenario, in some states you will have to provide your name to law enforcement if they request that you identify yourself.
What to do if a police officer says you have a warrant?
If the officer says that he has a warrant for your arrest, you have a right to see the warrant. You must go with the officer, but you do not have to answer questions until you consult an attorney. If you are detained, you should ask for an attorney and remain silent.
Do you have to answer questions if you are under arrest?
When questioned by the police, you have the right to remain silent. So, you don’t have to answer any questions if you are under arrest. If you do decide to speak to the police, the statements can be used against you in a court of law. You may stop answering at any time and all questioning by police must stop as well.
What happens if you refuse to speak to the police?
The fact that you are refusing to speak with the police is not something they can use against you. There is a potential that you could unwittingly say something that gives them standing to believe you are suspicious or guilty. Law enforcement officers can ask a judge to execute a search warrant after police questioning.