Many people wonder what their rights are when the authorities contact them. While every situation calls for individual advice, we suggest the following general guidelines (subject to our disclaimer):

If you are driving and are stopped by the police, you do not need to tell them anything and you should not. As we often hear in the movies - you have the right to remain silent and anything you say can and will be used against you. Why would you say anything at all if you know it will be used against you? The answer is simple - in most cases you should not say anything. If the police ask you if you have something illegal in the vehicle, tell them you do not wish to answer and also tell them you want to talk to your attorney immediately. If you have a mobile phone, call us from the side of the road.

You also do not need to give the police permission to search your vehicle or your home. You have the right to maintain your privacy. Who wants a stranger digging through their glove compartment or their closets? No one. So, if a police officer asks you if he or she can search your vehicle or home, tell them they do not have your permission. Also tell them you want to talk to your attorney immediately and call us.

Even if the police tell you it will be easier on you if you allow them to search, you generally should not give your permission. The police often try to convince someone to trust them when they are trying to gather evidence to be used to CONVICT that person of a crime. Nothing can substitute for sound legal advice should you end up face to face with the police. Call us immediately if you do come into contact with police, FBI, border authorities, DEA, or any other government agent.

You should also remember to be polite and physically cooperative with police officers at all times. If the officer arrests you, do not resist or try to get away. This will just make things worse. Do not speak to the officer, do not answer any questions, and ask to speak to your attorney at 800-CANNABIS immediately. While we all know we have the "right to remain silent," most people do not know they have "the right to an attorney at any time." Know your rights and take advantage of them.