San Jose Criminal Lawyer

If you need experienced San Jose criminal lawyers, Valencia, Ippolito & Bowman can help.  Whether you've been arrested for a DUI, DWI, drug crime, domestic violence or abuse crime, weapons charge, business fraud, or internet crime.  Call us now at 877-7NO-JAIL.

Experienced Criminal Attorneys in San Jose

It’s very important to remember that statements you make to police officers can be used against you in a criminal law case.  The San Jose criminal attorneys of  Valencia, Ippolito & Bowman offer these tips on handling questions from police officers...


What NOT to do or say if approached or detained by police:
Follow these criminal defense law guidelines:

   •  You have the right to remain silent.  This cannot be used against you.

   •  Ask to speak to your attorney before answering any questions.

   •  Innocent things you may say may hurt you.

   •  The police don’t have to tell you the truth, and can fabricate information.

   •  If a police officer is at your door, you don’t have to answer it.
      Call your criminal law attorney right away.

   •  Police cannot interrogate you until they read you your rights.

   •  Don’t argue with the officer, or make a scene. The officer will
      remember it.

   •  Don’t admit anything.

   •  Ask if you may leave…”Am I free to go?” 

   •  Say no to searches without a warrant. 

   •  Do not use profanity or foul language.  Show respect.  Be courteous.

   •  If asked by the police to search your vehicle, you have the right to say no.

   •  Keep personal items out of sight.

   •  Comply with the officer’s request to see your driver’s license,
      registration and insurance.

   •  If you are stopped while driving a vehicle, pull over to the side
      of the road, and don’t be the first one to speak.

   •  You do not have to say where you were going, what you were
      doing, who you were with, or how fast you were going.


Remember the DON’TS:

•  Don’t be disrespectful, don’t argue, don’t run away, and don’t be the first one to speak.

Remember the DO'S:

  •  Ask to speak with a criminal attorney.

Experienced San Jose Criminal Lawyers

Valencia, Ippolito & Bowman believe in full cooperation and respect for all law enforcement personnel.  However, remember you are awarded rights.  If you are detained by the police, call our San Jose office anytime at 877-7NO-JAIL, or fill out our contact form with any questions about your case.

Please view our San Jose criminal defense and San Jose criminal law
pages for more information.