Tennessee Criminal Lawyer Blog

Many people question whether they should cooperate with the police. If the police ask you questions or ask you to do something, you usually have a legal right not to answer them, to walk away, or to refuse the request. If you are ordered to do something, you should obey that order. But, having the police order you is an important part of ensuring your protections under the constitution. If you are not sure whether they are requesting or ordering, you should obey them. Do not put yourself in danger by attempting to walk away from or disobey a police officer. And, if you feel like they are commanding you, then you protect your rights by obeying them.

If you feel the police are asking you to do something in a friendly, casual, non-threatening tone, and it is not clear whether they are commanding you or simply requesting something during a conversation, you may ask them whether they are ordering you or simply asking. If it is an order, you must obey immediately. If it is simply a request, you have the option of not granting the request. This will protect your rights. Remember to always use wise judgment. Obey the police and do not resist arrest. Acting out is dangerous and will only hurt your case. If you have been charged with a crime in the East Tennessee area, contact a criminal defense attorney.