Most people feel nervous when talking to law enforcement—whether during a traffic stop or at the police station. But what you say (and what you don’t say) can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Understanding the difference between a routine stop and a criminal investigation is crucial to protecting your rights.
In this article, Just Criminal Law Attorney Christina Williams and Legal Storytelling Specialist David Mann explain how to keep yourself safe in both situations.
At a Traffic Stop: Stay Calm and Don’t Volunteer Information
During most traffic stops, the officer will start with:
“Do you know why I pulled you over?”
Your best response is simple:
“No, officer. I’m not sure.”
Do not try to guess or offer explanations. Admitting fault—even casually—can instantly be used against you.
If Asked About Speed
If the officer asks,
“Do you know how fast you were going?”
respond politely:
“Please let me know, officer.”
Do not provide a number, explanation, or apology.
When Receiving a Ticket
Stay polite. Courtesy can sometimes result in a warning instead of a citation. If a ticket is being issued, you may respectfully ask:
“Is there any chance you could write this for a lower speed?”
Officers do have discretion, and even a small reduction can help your driving record.
When the Stop Turns Into a Criminal Investigation
If the conversation shifts into questions like:
“Have you had anything to drink tonight?”
“Do you have anything illegal in the car?”
“Do you mind if I look?”
the officer is no longer focused on the traffic violation. This is where you use the key phrase:
“I don’t want to discuss my day. Am I free to leave?”
This protects you without arguing or sounding confrontational.
At the Police Station: The Stakes Are Higher
If you are asked to come to the station or an officer shows up asking questions, it may feel friendly—but the goal may be to gather statements that can be used later.
If questioned, use the same phrase:
“I don’t want to discuss my day. Am I free to leave?”
If the answer is no, you are being detained—do not continue talking without an attorney.
Key Takeaways
You are not required to explain yourself at any stage.
Staying calm and polite protects your rights.
If questioning continues, you have the right to remain silent and request an attorney.
We Can Help
If you are being questioned by police, contact our team immediately.
Just Criminal Law is available 24/7 to protect your rights.
You only get one shot at justice. Make yours count.
Call, text, or chat with a member of our team anytime.