A Law Professor Explains Why You Should Never Talk to Police

Haven't been pulled over much since I lost most of my previously long hair and went from looking younger than my age to older than my age (my significant other thinks I look great. Love is blind). When I was be-bopping around in the '60's and '70's while still in Houston, I was pulled over all the time for no reason at all. Once, when I was taking a chick home at night after a concert, a squad car with a couple of cops pulled us over and asked me to get out of my vehicle (I think that's a favorite word they use. "Get out of your vehicle, sir!") And they throughly searched my car as I kept an eye on them as best I could. I knew the car was clean and didn't want anything planted. Some did that back then.

One kept an eye on me, while the other cop did the digging around. The girl was ignored. Then I heard a thump and the sound of glass falling to the street. The guy I couldn't keep an eye on had busted a tail light with his flashlight. Then he waltzed over to me and said (not making this up), "You almost ran a red light back there and you have a broken tail light. I'm writing a ticket for the tail light. You're lucky you're not getting one for that red light." The red light "back there" was about 7 blocks away. I didn't come close to running it, and they had obviously been following me. The rare times I've been pulled over the last several years? I always roll down my window, smiling, but looking a little concerned (practice helps) and ask the officer, "May I help you, sir?" I'm very convincing. What I'm saying is, I don't buy the advice. I'm not a minority, though, and look rather harmless. That helps, I'm sure.

 

I was speaking in general terms, RR, and related some personal experiences. I actually agree with the advice in the context you just described. Well said.

 

He is a passionate fifth amendment advocate. I think he makes a very good and reasonable case. He's not saying to be disobedient or impolite if stopped for a traffic violation.

Any police officers here with kids? What do you tell them about what they should say if questioned by police?

 

You don't have to talk to the police, and it is smarter if you don't.

You do have to comply with the police and the people who don't are typically screaming at them.

 

I've watched this several times over the years -- every time I start it I end up listening to the whole thing.

 

It's true, cops are almost never looking out for your best interest and if there is any way that you could have possibly done anything wrong in any way whatsoever, you're better off not talking to them.....but you have to comply with lawful orders.

I try to avoid interactions with the police as often as possible as a general rule.

 

Yeah, it's a very entertaining and informative talk. I've also watched it multiple times over the years.

 

I didn't watch the video so maybe it's answered there. Can pre-Miranda conversation be used against you? Once you're read your rights, you should ask for an attorney.

 

Meh, I talk to the police every time now that I'm not a dipsh@t kid. It's amazing what a calm adult discussion leads to.