We have all heard the common phrase that honesty is the best policy. When it comes to dealing with law enforcement, trying to lie your way out of things or place blame on someone else doesn’t usually work out in your favor. The truth comes out, and lying can lead to much larger problems. Intermountain Legal is back with our ongoing series of Criminal Defense Attorney Tips to help you navigate the best way to conduct yourself when being pulled over by a police officer.

What NOT to do:

• Do not try using an alias to get out of trouble. People often use ridiculous names like celebrity names, alliterative names, or even use names of people who have a warrant out for their arrest in order to get themselves off the hook. 
• Do not tell an officer, “I know my rights.” You may think you are well-versed in the law, but the officer likely knows more than you. When dealing with police, whether you are innocent or guilty, they assume that you did something wrong already, and they will use whatever they can against you.

What TO do:

• Be honest. Without giving too much information, you can still find a way to speak with integrity. Giving your real name is a great start to helping yourself in the long run.
• Listen to your rights. When an officer is giving you your rights, you can remember that you always have the right to a criminal defense attorney, and you have the right to remain silent, which you can and should do. Be polite when exercising your rights.

At the end of the day, police officers are typically just there to do their job. Treating them as you would like to be treated can go a long way, but remember that in the moment, you can and should do what is in your best interest. Exercising your right to remain silent in a polite way can take you far in court and help your criminal defense attorney through your case. For more tips and tricks, check out our other blogs on what to do when dealing with law enforcement.