Let's begin with the understanding that the police are not your friends and they are not there to help you. It is legal for the police to lie to you. Promises made by the police are not enforceable. Miranda warnings may not help you, so if the police are investigating:

1. Do not talk. Be polite and courteous, but refuse to discuss their investigation with them. You should plainly and repeatedly tell them that you do not want to discuss anything with them, and that you want an attorney present. Do not allow yourself to be tricked or coerced by the police.
2. Never consent to anything without the advice of your attorney. This includes giving the police permission to search, draw blood or discuss the case with you.
3. Never resist arrest. If a police officer is attempting to arrest you, be polite and cooperative. Inform the officer that you will go along peacefully. It is also important to immediately inform the officer -or any officer that tries to question you- that you do not want to talk without an attorney.
4. The only information you should provide without consulting an attorney is necessary biographical information. This includes your full legal name and address. If the police want to fingerprint or photograph you, cooperate fully.
5. Inform the officers that you wish to make a telephone call. Get an attorney quickly. If you call family or friends have them contact an attorney. Our criminal defense team is on call at all times of the day and night. You can reach us at 1-866-766-5245.
6. Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney. Jail house snitches have ruined numerous cases.
7. Post bond as quickly as possible. If you are arraigned and asked how you plead, your response should be, "I stand mute."
8. Do not waive any of your rights or your preliminary examination. In a felony case, a District Court 'prelim' is required before the case can be moved to circuit court. This hearing is the first chance to make significant progress on your case, and should not be waived without consulting a skilled attorney. Once this chance for a preliminary examination is waived, it is often gone forever.
9. Finally, meet with your attorney as soon as possible. When you meet with an attorney from our criminal defense team, be completely honest with your version of events. Tell us about any past criminal record or witness that might help or hurt your case. Remember that you are the most important part of your defense team.

Free attorney consultation: Fill out our contact form or call 1-866-766-5245 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week to talk to an experienced Michigan defense lawyer about your case. Our attorneys represent clients throughout Michigan, including Lansing, Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Holland, Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Detroit, Saginaw and Flint.