Can Greensboro criminal defense attorneys explain if it is necessary to identify yourself to police officers? Yes!
If you are pulled over in a traffic stop by an officer, or if you’re approached by an officer in public, no not panic. It’s often an officer’s job to connect with the public, even if you’ve done nothing wrong. Often, the officer may ask you to produce identification. To some people, this may seem a little overbearing. If this bothers you, do not panic. Remember that you have rights, and while you must produce your identification in some circumstances, you are not always required to show officers your identification. If you have a question about you specific interaction with an officer, you should not hesitate to contact a criminal defense lawyer for more information.
There are situations in which you are required to produce identification when a police officer asks for it. One of the most common situations when you need to do this is when you are pulled over while driving a motor vehicle. You are required to produce your name and driver’s license upon request. If you fail to do this, you could be charged with a class two misdemeanor, or even charged with resisting an officer. There are other situations non-driving related where you must produce identification. For example, you need to do this if you are being lawfully arrested or if you’re a part of a police investigation. If you have more questions about when you must produce identification, make sure you consult a Greensboro criminal defense attorney as soon as possible!
You need not always produce identification, though. For example, if you’re simply walking down the street and an officer demands that you show them your identification, you are not required to. If you’re ever confused whether an officer is asking you to consent to something, it is okay to politely ask them. The officer will make it clear if you do not have the right to refuse what they are asking of you.
If you need more information about the requirements of producing identification for a police officer, don’t hesitate to contact a Greensboro criminal defense lawyer today! The Law Offices of Garrett, Walker, Aycoth and Olson can answer any questions you have. Call at 336-379-0539 today; we are here to help!