Police procedurals and movies make the criminal justice system exciting and entertaining, but they’re also responsible for spreading common misconceptions that can have serious consequences if you’re placed under arrest. In some cases, these misunderstandings can lead you to surrender valuable rights and help the state build a case against you. Below are some of the most common misconceptions about criminal law that could affect the outcome of your case.

4 Common Criminal Law Misunderstandings

1. You Go Free if the Police Forget to Mirandize You

Thanks to dramatic movie scenes of attorneys bursting into an interrogation room demanding the release of their clients, many people believe that charges are automatically dropped if the officers forget to read them their rights. Unfortunately, this only means that any statements you made can’t be used against you and doesn’t impact any other evidence the police may have gathered.

2. It’s in Your Best Interests to Cooperate

Police and prosecutors often tell suspects that cooperating without an attorney present is the best way to achieve a positive outcome. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. No matter how friendly and understanding the officers seem to be, always bear in mind that their sole purpose is to build a case against you.

3. You Have the Right to Make a Phone Call

While some states do give suspects the right to make a reasonable number of phone calls after an arrest, in most jurisdictions, calls are a privilege given at the discretion of the police. Generally, whether you’re allowed a phone call will depend on your conduct, the nature of the charges, and the law enforcement agency’s specific rules.

4. Police Can’t Lie to Collect Evidence

Police officers enjoy broad discretion when collecting evidence, including the ability to lie to suspects. During the interrogation, officers may claim that they found your fingerprints at the scene, or that another suspect has implicated you in a crime. However, the police may hesitate to try these tactics if you’re represented by a criminal law attorney who has the knowledge to challenge and review evidence.

If you’ve been accused of a crime in Columbia, MO, you don’t have to face this difficult experience alone. The Law Office of Mike Hamilton has over 30 years’ experience in criminal law and a longstanding reputation for giving each of his clients the aggressive representation they deserve. Visit him online to learn more about his services or call (573) 825-5698 to schedule an initial consultation today.

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