Jacksonville DUI Arrest and Your Rights
The Jacksonville DUI attorneys at Robert Shafer & Associates, P.A. understand that being arrested for DUI can be a stressful experience. Many people are intimidated by police officers and tend to comply with every one of their requests. Even though you have been arrested you still have rights and it’s important that you are aware of them.
What are your rights?
If have been arrested for DUI, are in police custody and the officer wants to ask you questions, you must be read your Miranda warning. This warning is derived from the US Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona. You’re likely familiar with it from television shows or movies, but nonetheless, the Miranda warning includes:
• The right to stay silent
• If you do choose to talk, be aware that whatever you say can be used against you in court
• You can end the conversation at any point
• You have the right to speak with an attorney and that attorney is allowed to be with you during any questioning
• The court will provide an attorney for you if you are unable to hire one
If you have been arrested, the best course of action to take is to remain silent. Here are some responses you can offer to the police officer indicating this choice:
• I assert my Miranda rights
• I am not interested in speaking with you
• I want to speak with an attorney
If a police officer doesn’t get the message and continues to ask you questions then that officer is in violation of Miranda. Any evidence extrapolated from the conversation cannot be used against you if you are brought to trial.
Jacksonville Legal Help for Your DUI
Florida criminal law is complicated and you’ll need a skilled DUI attorney to represent you if you have been arrested for DUI. In Jacksonville, the DUI attorneys at Robert Shafer & Associates, P.A. will gladly take on your DUI case and represent your legal rights. To schedule your free initial consultation, call us at 866-681-9544 or complete our quick contact web form. A representative from our firm will respond shortly.
