We have all seen movies showing the police searching a person’s home or vehicle, but do you understand your rights if it were to happen in real life? Can the police conduct a search without your permission or a warrant? Understanding your legal rights is critical in keeping yourself out of a bad situation.

Below are a few tips to follow when you have interactions with law enforcement officers:

How to Behave in a Traffic Stop

According to the Oklahoma Department of Safety, below are the recommended behaviors when you are pulled over by law enforcement:

1. Stay calm, activate your turn signal, and pull off or to the right side of the roadway as soon and safely as possible.
2. Turn off the ignition and radio off and stay in your vehicle unless directed by the officer to exit.
3. Keep your hands on the steering wheel so they are easily observable.
4. Ask your passengers to remain calm and to stay in the vehicle while keeping their hands in plain view as well.
5. Give the officer your full attention.
6. Do not make sudden moves or search for your driver’s license or vehicle documents – wait for the officer to give you instructions. If you have a weapon(s) in the vehicle, inform the officer upon first contact.
7. If it is nighttime, the officer may direct a spotlight at your vehicle once stopped. To assist with visibility, turn on your interior lights as soon as you stop to help the officer see inside your vehicle.

Oklahoma Department of Safety

Searches Without a Warrant

Police officers must have probable cause or a reasonable belief that your vehicle contains evidence of a crime in order to search your vehicle without a warrant. Most people do not realize that they have the right to refuse to consent to a search, which may be a critical factor in your defense. A common example of a search without a warrant occurs when the officer reasonably believes that you have illegal drugs or a weapon and proceeds to pat you down and search the immediate area around you, which can include your vehicle.

Detentions

Law enforcement officers may temporarily detain you. Detention is not an arrest, but during the fact-gathering process, the officer may develop probable cause to arrest you. Therefore, it is essential to understand the difference between being detained and being arrested.

Knowing When to Contact a Criminal Lawyer

Any interaction with a police officer can be intimidating and stressful but understanding your legal rights and how to properly exercise them can help. If you are in a situation where you are detained for a lengthy period of time, or you are arrested, you should contact an Oklahoma criminal defense attorney for help.

When you are arrested, you have the right to contact a lawyer. Even if you know you are innocent and you really are not worried about the charges, you need a lawyer. The police do not arrest somebody unless they have evidence against them, so you need an attorney who can figure out what is going on and how to assist you. Even if you have not been formally arrested, having an experienced Oklahoma criminal lawyer by your side can provide clarity and protection during a stressful situation.

What if Your Rights are Violated by the Police?

If you believe that the law enforcement officers violated your rights during a traffic stop, document everything about the interaction. In today’s world of technology, voice recording or video is extremely helpful. However, even if you do not have that type of evidence, writing down every detail as soon as possible can be helpful, especially if you can obtain the names of witnesses to the traffic stop. The name of officer and law enforcement agency will be on the ticket, but if it is not legible, ask the office to provide the information.

You Should Not Face Criminal Charges Alone – Contact Us Today

If you are facing criminal charges, it is critical to seek the help of experienced criminal defense professionals. Our BMO criminal defense attorney legal team provides upfront communication and aggressive representation of our clients. Call Babbit, Mitchell & Ogle at (405) 692-7676 to ensure your rights are protected and to receive the best possible defense.