Why Police Want to Question You – And Why It’s a Trap

When the police show up at your door or call and say, “You’re not under arrest; we just need to clear up some things,” it might sound harmless. Maybe they phrase it like, “We just need your help with something.” However they ask, make no mistake—it will not be a casual conversation.

questioned by police

Legally, anything you say can and will be used against you, even if you are completely innocent. And they don't need to read your rights if you're not yet under arrest. Officers are trained to extract statements that fit their case, not necessarily the truth. They are, in fact, talking to you because they have already formed a theory of the case, and you – somehow – fit it. Plan on the cops making the conversation as uncomfortable as possible.

A Simple Conversation Can Lead to Criminal Charges

Everyone, everywhere, is subject to confirmation bias. Confirmation bias occurs when someone has an idea of what happened, is presented with tons of evidence and facts, and, in essence, cherry-picks only the ones that support their theory to come to a flawed conclusion.

Confirmation bias is a fact of life that is usually harmless. But never in criminal law. Confirmation bias leads to innocent people being charged with crimes.

What, then, is the best way to stay clear of confirmation bias? Don’t feed into it. Keep quiet and let your lawyer and only your lawyer talk.

The 3 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Talking to the Police

Mistake #1 – Thinking You Can Talk Your Way Out of It

Many people believe that if they just explain their side of the story, the police will see they’re innocent. In reality, police officers are trained interrogators who gather information to build their case—not to find the truth.

Case Study: Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart didn’t go to prison for insider trading. She went to prison for lying to federal investigators. Had she stayed silent and consulted a lawyer often, she might never have been charged at all.

Mistake #2 – Going Without a Lawyer

A lawyer protects you from giving statements that can be twisted against you. Without legal counsel, you risk saying something that seems harmless but is later used as evidence of guilt.

Legal Fact:

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that police are allowed to lie to you during interrogations. They can say that they have evidence when they don’t. They can say that someone has already implicated you when no such statement exists. They can say that they found fingerprints when they did not.

Their goal is to get you to talk, and the second you do, they control the narrative.

Mistake #3 – Ignoring the Power of Silence

Many people fear that refusing to answer police questions will make them look guilty. The truth is that staying silent cannot legally be used as evidence of guilt.

Pro Tip: Invoke Your Rights Correctly

If the police ask you questions, the best response is:

“Lawyer, please.”

This is the only statement you should make. Do not engage in small talk. Do not try to explain yourself. The moment you speak beyond this, you only risk your future.

What To Do If Police Call You for Questioning

If the police contact you and ask to speak with you, call a lawyer, then follow these steps:

1. Stay Calm

Do not panic, argue, or react emotionally. Remain polite and composed.

2. Do Not Answer Any Questions

Instead of engaging in conversation, say:

“I’m happy to cooperate, but I need to speak to my lawyer first.”

3. Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

Before you say anything to law enforcement, get legal representation. An attorney will:

  • Advise you on whether you should speak at all.
  • Ensure that your words are not misrepresented.
  • Protect you from coercion or intimidation.

If you have been contacted by the police, call our office immediately for guidance.

FAQs About Police Questioning

Yes, and they often do. Police officers are legally allowed to use deception during interrogations.

Even innocent people get convicted. The justice system is not perfect, and wrongful convictions happen more often than you think.

No. Unless you are legally summoned, you are not obligated to go to the police station for questioning. Always consult a lawyer first.

Pro tip - this almost always ends badly.

Before You Speak to the Police, Speak to Us

If the police want to question you, don’t navigate this situation alone. Contact us immediately to protect your rights and avoid making a mistake that could cost you your freedom and your future.