Police are required to stop their interrogation at the time you ask for an attorney, and cannot question you further until you have an attorney present. You must clearly communicate that you are asking for an attorney and that you do not wish to be questioned anymore. Sometimes during an investigation a person might say, “well, I think I might want to talk to an attorney.” This statement leaves some question in the officers or judges mind as to whether or not you actually asked for an attorney at that point.

Although asking for an attorney requires officers to cease questioning you, they may still arrest you if they think you have committed a crime or they have enough reason to believe you have committed a crime.

If you spontaneously or voluntarily speak without being questioned, your words can be used against you. Not only is it good to ask for an attorney, but you should also stop speaking until you have a chance to consult with an attorney on your case.