Imagine this—you’re in a high-stress situation, officers are asking you questions, and your adrenaline is through the roof. You think, I should just explain myself. I didn’t do anything wrong.
Stop right there.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when interacting with law enforcement is believing that talking will clear things up. In reality, your own words can be twisted and used against you—even if you’re completely innocent.
The Power of Silence in a Legal Case
We’ve all heard it before: You have the right to remain silent. But what does that actually mean for you?
It means that anything you say—anything—can be used as evidence in court. Even casual, seemingly harmless comments can be misinterpreted, taken out of context, or manipulated to fit a narrative that makes you look guilty.
It happens more often than you think.
As a criminal defense attorney, I’ve seen countless cases where my clients thought they were just explaining themselves, only for their own words to be the reason they were charged, denied bail, or convicted.
Real-Life Example: A Conversation That Changed Everything
I had a client who was recorded on a police officer’s body camera—not while being formally questioned, but while talking to his own mother at the scene.
He had already been Mirandized, meaning he had been informed of his right to remain silent. He thought, Okay, I won’t talk to the police.
But he didn’t realize that his conversation with his mother—right in front of the officer—was also being recorded.
That recording became evidence in court. And despite our objections, the judge allowed it in, calling it relevant to the case. It was devastating for his defense.
This is why I always tell my clients:
If You’re Arrested, Follow These Steps
1️⃣ Remain silent – Politely say, “I am choosing to remain silent. I want a lawyer.” Then, say nothing else.
2️⃣ Do not explain yourself – You cannot talk your way out of an arrest. The police are not your friends in this situation.
3️⃣ Be mindful of body cameras and recordings – Assume everything you say is being recorded and can be used against you.
4️⃣ Call an attorney immediately – Do not answer any questions until you have legal representation.
Your Best Defense Starts With Silence
In the courtroom, what you didn’t say is just as powerful as what you did. Staying silent doesn’t make you look guilty—it makes you smart.
Let me handle the legal strategy. Let me speak for you. That’s what I’m here for.
If you or a loved one has been arrested, don’t wait—call me today at 310-878-9131