Few things are quite as frightening as being detained by law enforcement, especially if you are an immigrant in today’s political climate. The best way to protect yourself in this situation is to know your rights in detainment. Firstly, it is important to understand the difference between detainment and arrest, as your rights change depending on the situation. If you are being detained, the police only need reasonable suspicious to stop you, and you are also able to leave after some time has passed. However, for arrest, law enforcement must need probable cause, and the individual under arrest may not leave as he or she will be taken into custody. It is very natural for detainment to turn into an arrest if the police officer feels there is a reason to do so.
Firstly, you should not discuss your citizenship or immigration status with the police officer. This information should only be discussed with your trusted Lake Charles immigration attorney. During a detainment, you have the right to remain silent, and you have the right to state you do not consent to a search. If, after some time, you would like to end the interaction, you may ask, “Am I free to go?” If the police officer tells you no, you may state, “Can you tell me why you are stopping me?” The most important thing to remember is to remain respectful, cooperative, but insistent on requesting a lawyer before you answer any further questions.
Contact Our Lake Charles Immigration Lawyer Today
If you have been detained, there is no time like the present to seek the counsel, care, and representation of a Lake Charles immigration attorney you can trust. At Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP, we are committed to serving our clients to the best of our ability, regardless of how much time and effort it takes. We have a proven track record of success, which is why our firm refuses to back down from any challenge we may face.
To speak to a member of our firm, don’t hesitate to contact us by calling (337) 214-0670.