The knock of a police officer is nearly impossible to mistake. It is loud and deliberate with a feeling of little patience on the other side.
After you have gathered yourself and begin to deal with what is happening, you have to decide what to do next. Make no mistake, if the officers have a warrant they will not knock and wait long for you to open the door. With a warrant in hand, law enforcement is coming in your home whether you like it or not.
What Now?
If the officers at your door are not flashing a warrant and telling you they are coming in, you need to know you are in charge of what happens next. However, if you open that door, you have just created an opportunity for them to gain exactly what they need to enter. Officers may claim to see something in plain view that can be used against you.
Understanding Your Rights in Florida When the Police Knock
- Talk to them without opening the door. Make sure to tell them that you are willing to talk, but you would like your attorney to be present. You do not have to already have an attorney to tell them that you want one present. Ask for a contact person with law enforcement and for their contact information. Inform them that you will contact them after you set up a time with your attorney. After they leave, you should absolutely contact an experienced criminal defense attorney near you for a consultation on how to proceed.
- Ignore them. It can be very hard to just ignore officers at your door. They will likely continue to talk and make empty threats or promises from the other side. Do not fall for their tricks, you have no obligation to answer the door just because they are knocking.
- Go outside and talk without giving anyone permission to go inside. Make sure to go out a door in an area that they are not standing. You can walk around to them and ask for the contact information of whoever is in charge. Make sure you are clear that you do not wish to speak with them without your lawyer present and politely ask them to leave. After they eventually go away, contact a lawyer immediately to discuss your next move.
Consult with a Central Florida Defense Attorney
Whether you live in Tavares, Eustis, Leesburg or anywhere else in Lake County or Central FL, call Mark Jackson. He will provide a free consultation with you in his downtown Tavares office or over the phone. If the police are wanting to talk to you, an experienced criminal lawyer can help you find out why and develop a game plan moving forward. Do not let law enforcement intimidate you into making a mistake. You have rights, let Mark Jackson fight to protect them. Jackson Defense
