One of the first questions I hear from clients is simple: “Do I have to talk to the police?” Many people believe that if they just explain their side of the story, the police will understand and let them go. Unfortunately, that almost never happens. Speaking to law enforcement without a lawyer is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
In Connecticut, as in every state, you have the right to remain silent. Using that right is not an admission of guilt — it is a smart and necessary way to protect yourself.
Your Right to Remain SilentThe Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees that no one can be forced to incriminate themselves. This is one of the most important rights in our justice system. In practical terms, it means you do not have to answer questions from the police, and you cannot be punished simply for refusing to talk.
In my 30+ years of representing people in Stamford and across Connecticut, I have seen how quickly casual conversations with police can be twisted into damaging evidence. Remaining silent is a safeguard against pressure, manipulation, or innocent misstatements that can come back to haunt you.
Miranda Rights in ConnecticutWe’ve all seen TV shows where police read suspects their rights: “You have the right to remain silent…” But in real life, Miranda rights are not always required. Police only have to advise you of your rights if two things are true:
If either element is missing, they may question you without a Miranda warning — and anything you say can still be used against you. For example, during a traffic stop or an informal “chat,” police may gather incriminating statements even without reading rights. That is why the safest approach is always to remain silent and request an attorney immediately.
The Dangers of Talking Without a LawyerMany clients tell me they wanted to appear “cooperative” or thought the police would let them go if they just explained. The reality is very different.
I tell clients: the less you say, the better your chances. Once you have a lawyer present, we can control the flow of information and ensure your rights are protected.
Real-World Connecticut Examples DUI Stop in StamfordA driver pulled over after leaving a restaurant thinks it will help to admit he “only had two beers.” That statement becomes Exhibit A for the prosecutor. Remaining silent and asking for a lawyer would have been far safer.
Domestic Dispute in GreenwichPolice arrive at a heated argument. One partner tries to explain what happened, accidentally admitting to grabbing the other’s arm. That admission turns a family argument into a criminal assault case. Silence could have prevented charges.
Shoplifting Case in NorwalkA young adult is accused of taking items from a store. Thinking honesty will lead to leniency, they confess. Instead, the confession locks in the case for the prosecutor. With a lawyer, alternative outcomes like diversionary programs may have been available.
Protecting YourselfRemaining silent is more than just avoiding mistakes — it actively strengthens your defense.
If police violated your rights, your attorney may be able to file a motion to suppress, asking the court to exclude statements taken improperly. But once you speak freely, undoing the damage is much harder.
Why Having a Lawyer MattersWhen you ask for a lawyer, the police must stop questioning you. This simple step protects you more than anything else. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can:
I have spent decades defending people in Stamford Superior Court and across Connecticut. I know the judges, the prosecutors, and the system. My role is not just to defend you legally but to guide you through one of the most stressful experiences of your life.
Empathy and ExperienceGetting arrested or contacted by police is terrifying. The fear of the unknown, the worry about your reputation, and the stress on your family can feel overwhelming. I want every client to know: you are not alone. I have represented professionals, parents, students, and neighbors who found themselves in this exact situation.
Remaining silent does not mean you are helpless — it means you are protecting yourself until you can get the help you need.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDo Police Think I’m Guilty if I Stay Silent?No. Your silence cannot legally be used as evidence of guilt. It is a constitutional right.
If I’m Innocent, Shouldn’t I Explain?Even innocent details can be misinterpreted. Police are not neutral fact-finders — they are building a case.
When Must Police Read Miranda Rights?Only when you are both in custody and subject to interrogation.
What if Police Questioned Me Without Reading Rights?Your lawyer may be able to challenge those statements and seek to have them suppressed.
Can I Answer a Few Questions Then Stop?It is safest to refuse all questions until your lawyer is present.
What if Police Say Talking Will “Help Me”?That is a tactic to make you talk. It rarely helps and usually harms your case.
Do I Need a Lawyer if I’ve Done Nothing Wrong?Yes. Innocent people can still be charged. A lawyer ensures your rights are respected.
Can Questioning Continue After I Ask for a Lawyer?No. Once you request counsel, police must stop.
What if I Already Made A Statement?Contact a lawyer immediately. There may still be legal ways to challenge how it was obtained.
How Can Allan F. Friedman Help?I can step in immediately, stop police questioning, and begin protecting your rights.
Conclusion and Call to ActionTalking to police without a lawyer is never a good idea. The Constitution gives you the right to remain silent, and using that right is the smartest thing you can do. Whether you are facing a DUI, domestic case, theft allegation, or any other criminal matter, you should not face it alone.
📞 Call Allan F. Friedman, Criminal Lawyer today at (203) 357-5555 or contact me here. The sooner you act, the more options we have to protect you, your freedom, and your future.