Once police have arrested me, do I have to answer their questions?
No. If you're arrested you have the right to remain silent and to see an attorney.
If you're arrested, don't rely on police to inform you of your right to remain silent and see a lawyer. Use the magic words "I'm going to remain silent. I would like to see a lawyer." If police persist in questioning you, repeat the magic words. The magic words are like a legal condom. They're your best protection if you're under arrest.
Remember that anything you say can and will be used against you in court. So don't try to talk yourself out of the situation, and don't make small talk with police either.
If you are innocent, it is especially important not to talk to the police until you have a lawyer. Our prisons are full of people who claim they are innocent, and many of those people are actually telling the truth.
To learn more, watch the famous "Never Talk to the Police" lecture by Regent University Law School Professor James Duane. It's followed up by an equally compelling lecture by Officer George Bruch who talks about how he successfully interrogates suspects.
