Your Rights When Being Questioned by the Police in Bethlehem, PA.
When police stop to question you, you are protected by the U.S. Constitution. You have the right to be free from unreasonable searches, the right to remain silent, and the right to an attorney. These protections — guaranteed under the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments and reinforced by the Miranda warning — ensure you don’t have to face law enforcement alone or unprepared. Our criminal defense lawyers will discuss your rights if the police in Pennsylvania are attempting to ask you questions.
Your Right to Privacy: The Fourth Amendment
Police cannot simply stop you and search you for no reason. That is not acceptable under the law. The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is your shield against unlawful searches and seizures. Law enforcement cannot invade your privacy, your home, or your vehicle without a valid warrant or a legally recognized exception.
If police overstep (and, sadly, that does happen), every shred of illegally obtained evidence can be thrown out under the exclusionary rule. Police officers love to claim “consent” or “plain view” to justify a search. You have the Constitutional right to demand a warrant. You should always refuse consent. If a search is illegal, your Bethlehem criminal defense lawyer can challenge it in court.
Your Right to Remain Silent: The Fifth Amendment
The Fifth Amendment ensures that you never have to answer questions that could incriminate you. From the moment you’re detained or arrested, exercise your right to remain silent. Do not explain, argue, or negotiate with the police — every word can be used against you.
These protections form the backbone of the Miranda warning. If officers question you without properly advising you of your rights, your statements may be excluded from court. The safest choice: stay silent until your lawyer is present.
Your Right to a Defense: The Sixth Amendment
Facing arrest or charges in Pennsylvania is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The Sixth Amendment guarantees your right to a fair trial — including a speedy and public hearing, an impartial jury, and most importantly, the right to legal counsel. Consult with one of our dedicated criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible after an arrest. Having a lawyer by your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you have a strong advocate fighting on your behalf.
Contact Our Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers Today
At Crouthamel Law Office, our Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney has the knowledge and experience that you can rely on. You should not take questions from the police without a lawyer on your side. Our firm will be by your side through each step of the criminal justice process. If you have any questions about your rights, please do not hesitate to contact us today. We assertively defend against criminal charges for individuals throughout both Lehigh and Northampton Counties.