The police have called to discuss allegations of criminal sexual conduct. If the suspect has done nothing wrong, is it okay to go talk to the police? Will it help to talk to the police to get the investigation dropped?
Some law firms believe it is NEVER advisable for any suspect to talk to the police. Some lawyers feel it is best to always remain silent. Without hearing the facts of the specific case, they will resort to their blanket answer that people should never cooperate with the police or agree to be questioned.
Smith Blythe, PC answers this question on a case-by-case basis. After a consultation, the attorneys will be able to provide you with better direction about whether speaking to the police is a good or bad idea depending on your specific situation. Shannon Smith and Gail Benson have worked with adult clients, teacher clients and juvenile clients when they have been asked to speak with the police.
That being said, there are specific precautions a person must take when they agree to talk with the police. An attorney can be hired to communicate with the police on behalf of a client or hired to accompany clients during their meetings with the police. With an effective attorney, and one that focuses specifically on sex cases, sometimes meeting with the police can be an effective way to bring the investigation to a close. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Shannon M. Smith have the experience and know-how to help you decide the best course of action.
If you do speak to the police, it is critical to have an attorney by your side. It is critical that you understand the questions you will be asked and that you are prepared to answer the questions. A common mistake some people make is to automatically deny not only the allegations, but also that there was ever an opportunity when something sexual could have happened. Making a blanket statement like, “That couldn’t have happened — I was never alone with Johnny,” can be dangerous. If in fact there were times when you could have been alone with the child, this statement will only make you seem like you are overreaching and lying to save yourself. If the truth is that you have been alone with the child, but have never molested them, it is important to be accurate and clear. The attorneys at Smith Blythe, PC can help you determine other ways to show the police that in fact, nothing happened. Our attorneys have experience representing clients in these difficult situations. Sometimes the police will stop before pressing charges.
Finally, it is important to know that Shannon Smith and Gail Benson do set up affordable retainers with clients who want to be represented before charges are pressed. In many cases, paying a small retainer up front has helped clients avoid the stress of being criminally charged.