Criminal Do's and Dont's
- Do retain an attorney who specializes in criminal defense as soon as possible, preferably before you have talked to or answered the questions of a police detective.
- No matter how charming or terrifying the detective is, do not share any information other than your name, address and vital statistics (i.e., date of birth etc.)
- Refuse to talk to anyone about your case except for your attorney and his or her staff.
- Refuse to answer any questions asked by the police or anyone else about the present charges or any other charges or alleged crimes without the advice of an attorney.
- Refuse to give any consent or waivers to the police.
- Refuse to submit to any line-ups, identifications, examinations or tests without prior consultation with your attorney.
- It is better to not say anything than to lie. Lying to a police officer can be an additional charge of obstructing legal process or official duty which, in Kansas, can be either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on what type of investigation or work the police are engaged in.
- Police officers cannot make legally binding promises to you regarding your prosecution. Only a County Attorney, District Attorney or U.S. Attorney has the power to make any deal.
- Be polite to everyone concerning this matter, but do not discuss the case.
- Be aware that if you are out on bond, you must not violate that bond or have any additional violations of the law. If you violate any condition of the bond or are arrested, the County/District/US Attorney can and will likely request your bond be revoked, which will result in you remaining in custody until the completion of your case.
- You must notify your attorney and the Clerk of Courts immediately of any change of address.