More on your rights during an arrest

Can I be interrogated after my rights are read to me?

You can be interrogated without an attorney if you give up, and are aware that you are giving up your right to have an attorney present. If you decide to allow yourself to be interrogated without an attorney present then change your mind, the interrogation must stop. If the interrogation continues after you request the presence of an attorney and you keep talking, what you say may still be used against you.

It is also possible you might have to perform physical tests. For examples, if you are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol, it is possible to be asked to undergo a test to measure the level of alcohol in your body. If you deny that test, your drivers' license will be suspended
and your denial will be used as evidence against you in court. After you are arrested you are granted three local phone calls. You are required to pay for additional phone calls.

When should I hire an attorney?

It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible if you are arrested for a serious crime. An attorney will have a better idea what you should or should not say to police officers during interrogation. An attorney can also explain the process to you, your family and friends.

Attorney Mario Rodriguez has over 28 years of experience and is a State Certified Criminal Law Specialist. For more information call 760-347-7771.