Will Hiring an Attorney Make Me Appear Guilty?
By Sullivan Rice
No one wants to appear guilty or act in a way that draws more scrutiny from the police. This is a natural response. However, if the police are investigating you for a crime in Minnesota, or worse, if you have already been charged and they want to talk to you, it’s crucial to understand the narrative behind the phrase, “Hiring a lawyer makes you look guilty.” Guess who promotes this idea? That’s right, the police. They don't want you to have an attorney. But why is that? This scenario can unfold in cases involving sexual assault investigations, child pornography allegations, domestic violence, or any criminal charge. This article explores the multiple reasons why having legal counsel by your side is vital if you are being investigated or charged with a crime. Contact an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney to discuss your case.
The Police Just Want to Talk – Is It Really a Social Call?
When the police say they just want to talk, it’s not a friendly chat. They are trying to build a case and want evidence from you to help them do it. They aren’t there to be your friend.
Understanding Your Constitutional Rights
“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you…”
The police mean it when they say this. During a criminal investigation in Minnesota, they are building a case and often won’t use the Miranda language at the start. The evidence they gather is used to assess blame, determine charges, and focus their attention. They have ideas, notions, and opinions, but it’s the evidence that supports these that matters if charges are brought and a conviction is pursued. So, when they want to sit down with you, it’s not to “get your side of the story” or clear up a misunderstanding. It’s about figuring out whom to arrest. So, let’s return to your right to remain silent.
You have no obligation to speak to the police and shouldn’t. This is a Constitutionally protected right. Unfortunately, this right doesn’t matter unless you exercise it. There are many reasons to do so, including avoiding self-incrimination, preventing misunderstandings, and avoiding mischaracterization of your statements. Even seemingly pointless conversations can lock you into facts that may be unclear to you. The police know things you don’t and can drive you in various directions. Moreover, the police are trained to lie to you, and the courts permit it. So, if you’re being investigated, find the best Minnesota criminal defense attorney.
What Happens if the Police Don’t Like Me?
It’s human nature to want to be liked and trusted. The police play on this, acting reasonable and understanding at first, pretending to be “here to help.” But they aren’t. If you ask for a lawyer, it doesn’t matter whether they like you. They may even threaten you and your loved ones with arrest, calling you a suspect rather than a witness. How they feel about you is irrelevant. If they were in your place, they would “lawyer up” because they know what’s really happening.
Go with the Best
If you are facing serious criminal charges in Minnesota, it is critical to consult with an experienced, reputable criminal defense attorney. Their experience and reputation can help from the start. They may know the prosecutors, judges, and even the police officers who are investigating you.
Jack Rice is a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, former prosecutor, former U.S. Federal Officer, and a nationally renowned, award-winning, trial-winning criminal defense attorney. He is also the Founder of Jack Rice Defense, a boutique criminal defense firm based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.
