The Right to Remain Silent: What You Should Know!

The Fifth Amendment to the U. S. Constitution provides, in part, that “No person...shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself...”  This is commonly referred to as a person’s “right to remain silent.”

However, when a person disregards that right, in most cases, anything that person says can be used against him/her in a criminal trial.  Even the most innocent sounding statement made to a law enforcement officer can have a devastating effect at trial. 

It is always instructive to remember there is no penalty which can be imposed for exercising your right to remain silent.  The fact that you exercised that right cannot be used against you at trial. 

When considering whether to speak to law enforcement authorities, whether informally or after you have been arrested, you should always seek the advice of an attorney.

If you, a family member, or friend has been accused of or charged with a crime in Missouri, our legal team at Parker Law LLC is committed to helping you obtain the most favorable outcome possible.  At Parker Law LLC, we believe in pursuing excellence with every client.