Police investigation is never an easy experience – even for those who frequently go in and out of interrogation rooms – and of course even more so for average normal citizens who have been summoned for an investigation out of the blue.
In addition to the mental stress that affects the person being interrogated simply by sitting in front of the interrogating police officer, whether it is simply as a warning or not, the discomfort arises from the disparity in knowledge between the knowledge of the police officer and the interrogated person. In other words, the police officer knows exactly which evidence is on the table and what their legal validity is, but as clear and transparent as he/she may appear these details will not be shared with the person being interrogated. These gaps in knowledge are a valuable asset for the interrogator, since in a situation where the person being investigated doesn’t know what the evidence held against them is, if at all, then every word that comes out of their mouth can be the key to their incrimination.
Moreover, because many of the people being investigated are certain that the right to be silent, a fundamental right in criminal law, will strengthen the validity of the evidence against them, they tend to offer their own versions to the interrogators and do so without first consulting with an attorney – this is a serious strategic error that the interrogators are glad to take advantage of.
Therefore, whether you have been summoned, have been taken for criminal interrogation as a warning, have only received a letter to your home to visit the police station and upon your arrival it becomes clear to you that it is not a warning interrogation, the first and proper thing that one should do is not to say anything before taking advantage of their right to meet and speak with an attorney. The additional benefit of an early meeting with an attorney is inherent in the attorney’s ability to assist you in formulating a consistent account of the story that you will be able to present to the interrogators at a later time. All this will allow you to prevent various contradictions that arise from emotional panic felt due to the stressful experience.
Experience teaches that the difference between an interrogation that is completed without consultation with an attorney, and an interrogation that is completed after a meeting with an attorney and preparation in advance is unfathomably significant. Advanced preparation for an interrogation can make the difference between an indictment and an acquittal and return to your daily life – now you do the math.
The Sharon Nahari Law Office specializes in providing immediate legal consultation to individuals who have been summoned to a police interrogation. If you contact us while you are still in the police station, one of the attorneys from our firm will immediately come and prepare you for the anticipated interrogation. All you have to do is stop worrying and contact us immediately.