Being the target of a criminal investigation is a serious matter that requires careful consideration of every step you take. Each case is unique, but there are general principles you should follow to protect yourself and avoid making your situation worse. Below are six critical guidelines, along with practical advice to help you through this challenging time.
If you need expert legal assistance, the attorneys at Hills at Law, P.C. are here to provide the guidance and representation you need to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.

1. Do Not Talk to the Police

The first and most important rule is to avoid speaking to the police without a lawyer present. As the primary suspect, law enforcement will try to question you, often under the guise of “getting your side of the story.” While it might feel tempting to explain your innocence, this can lead to unintended consequences.

Police officers and detectives are skilled at keeping you talking, using your words to piece together evidence—even if you didn’t mean to say anything incriminating. Mistaken facts, contradictions, or offhand comments can all be used against you. The safest course of action is to exercise your right to remain silent and request legal representation immediately. If law enforcement approaches you, politely decline to answer questions and say, “I want to speak to a lawyer.”

The attorneys at Hills at Law, P.C. specialize in protecting clients’ rights and ensuring that law enforcement does not exploit any missteps. Contact us as soon as possible if you’re being investigated.

2. Avoid Taking a Police Polygraph Test

Polygraph tests, often called “lie detector tests,” are not as reliable as they are portrayed. Police may ask you to take one under the premise that it will clear you of suspicion if you’re innocent. However, agreeing to a polygraph can be a trap.

These tests involve three stages: pre-test questioning, the polygraph itself (usually 3-5 questions), and a post-test interrogation. If the results show you “failed”—whether accurate or not—the officer will use this to pressure you into making additional statements or confessions. A polygraph test is essentially an extensive, high-pressure interview while you’re connected to a machine designed to imply you’re lying. To protect yourself, simply decline to take a polygraph.

3. Do Not Contact the Alleged Victim or Witnesses

If you are being accused of a crime involving another individual—such as assault, stalking, or theft—you might feel the urge to reach out to the accuser to explain your side or try to calm the situation. Resist this impulse.

Any form of contact, whether through social media, phone calls, texts, or even indirect communication, can be seen as harassment or witness tampering. This could escalate your case and lead to additional charges like obstruction of justice. The safest approach is to avoid all communication with the alleged victim or witnesses and leave such matters to your lawyer.

At Hills at Law, P.C., our attorneys handle all communications with opposing parties to ensure your case is managed professionally and without unnecessary risks.

4. Secure Evidence Discreetly

If there is public evidence that could support your case—such as social media posts, public statements, or online activity by the alleged victim—take immediate steps to preserve it. Screenshots or saved copies can be crucial in your defense.

However, collecting evidence does not mean engaging with the person who posted it. Do not send messages, comment, or interact with their content in any way. Simply save the evidence for your legal team to review and use appropriately. Acting discreetly will help you avoid unnecessary complications.

5. Do Not Consent to Searches

Police may ask for permission to search your home, car, phone, or other belongings. You have the right to decline these requests. Providing consent eliminates their obligation to obtain a warrant and weakens your legal protections.

Unless police present a valid search warrant, you should politely refuse any request to search your property or collect biological samples (like saliva for DNA testing). If a warrant is produced, comply without resistance, but avoid volunteering additional information. Remember, consent is essentially an exception to the search warrant requirement—don’t waive your rights.

6. Use Time to Your Advantage (Bonus Tip)

If you know you are under investigation but have not yet been charged, consider using this time to take proactive steps. For example:

• If the case involves an assault or violent behavior, seek an anger management assessment and follow any recommendations.
• For cases related to drugs or alcohol, undergo a substance abuse evaluation and begin treatment if necessary.

These actions demonstrate accountability and a willingness to improve, which could benefit you in court. Beyond legal strategy, they may also help you personally.

The attorneys at Hills at Law, P.C. can help you determine the best steps to take during this critical time and connect you with resources to strengthen your defense.

Additional Advice

Every case is unique, and while these guidelines serve as a general framework, there are exceptions. Breaking these rules should only be done under the guidance of an experienced attorney who understands the complexities of the criminal justice system.

• Be Polite: Always treat law enforcement with respect, even when asserting your rights. Politeness helps de-escalate potentially tense situations.
• Do Not Resist Arrest: If you are taken into custody, cooperate calmly. Resisting arrest can lead to additional charges and complications.
• Jail Calls Are Recorded: If you are detained, assume all phone calls from jail are monitored and recorded. Avoid discussing your case or making any statements that could be used against you.

At Hills at Law, P.C., we understand the stress and uncertainty of being under investigation or facing criminal charges. Our experienced attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through the process with care and expertise. Contact us today for the support and defense you deserve.