“Do Not Talk to Police”: Understanding Your Rights After an Arrest
Few phrases are more misunderstood than “You have the right to remain silent.” Many people believe that silence makes them look guilty or that cooperation will help their case. In practice, the opposite is often true.
Understanding why silence matters is essential after an arrest or police contact.
Why Police Ask Questions
Police are trained to gather evidence. Even casual conversation can provide details that support charges. Officers may appear friendly or reassuring, but their role is not to protect the accused.
Statements rarely “clear things up.” Instead, they often narrow defense options.
Silence Is a Constitutional Right
Choosing not to speak is not obstruction. It is a legally protected right designed to prevent self-incrimination.
Once a lawyer is requested, questioning must stop.
Common Mistakes People Make
Talking “off the record”
Explaining context
Minimizing conduct
Answering “just one question”
These statements can be misinterpreted or taken out of context.
How Silence Helps Your Defense
Remaining silent allows your attorney to:
Review evidence objectively
Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
Prevent inconsistent statements
Control the narrative strategically
Silence preserves options.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.