Talking To The Police or FBI

• You do not have to talk to the police or FBI or any other investigator. You don't have to talk to them on the street, your home, even if you have been arrested (except for name, birth and address). Only a court or grand jury has legal authority to compel testimony.
   
• You do not have to let the police or FBI into your home or office unless they show you an arrest or search warrant which authorizes them to enter that specific place.
   
• If they do present a warrant, do not tell them anything other than your name and address. You have the right to observe what they do and it is a good idea to do so.
   
• Make written notes, including agent's names, agency and badge numbers. Try to have witnesses there also taking notes. Videotaping all events concerning police and other authorities have proven beneficial.
   
• Anything you do or say to any law enforcement officer may be used against you and other people. Keep quiet.
   
• If you do give information, it may mean that you will have to testify to the same information at a trial or before a grand jury.
   
• Lying to an FBI agent or other federal investigator is a crime.
   
• If you are confronted by police or an FBI agent for questioning or to enter your home without a warrant, REFUSE! Never try to outwit them, they are very skilled at their job. The smallest piece of information can be detrimental!
   
• Investigators may threaten you with a grand jury subpoena if you refuse to give information. But you may get one anyway. Any information you give may be used a basis for further questioning under oath.
   
• They may threaten or intimidate you by pretending to have information ("We know what you've been doing, but if you cooperate, you will be alright."). Don't fall for it. Tell them they'll have to speak to you with your lawyer present.
   
• When in doubt, or uncomfortable with how to respond, or refusing to talk, tell them to speak to your lawyer. Once a lawyer is involved, the agents usually will back off as they have lost their intimidation power. If you are taken into police custody, request a lawyer immediately. Once you have done so, the authorities must stop the questioning until a lawyer is present. Always have a lawyer's phone number on hand.
   

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