Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

do i give a voluntary statement to Police

I was playing a pick-up basketball game that got physical with me ending up ''checking'' another player pretty hard. He called the police claiming i hit him and now a detective wants me to come in and give a statement. Do i have to do it and should i go in either with a lawyer or by myself? and what is the benefit either way for me?


Asked on 7/29/08, 8:37 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys
Valerie Masters Valerie Masters, P.A.

Re: do i give a voluntary statement to Police

I was just writng a letter to the police telling them to not speak with my client. You should no talk to police- ever.

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Answered on 7/30/08, 2:57 pm
Aaron Slavin Slavin Law Firm, LLC

Re: do i give a voluntary statement to Police

I would definitely recommend having a lawyer in the event you decide to speak to the detective. However, you have no obligation to speak to the Detective at all. Let them make their case... you don't have to do it for them.

Please visit my website at: www.slavinlawfirm.com and view the FAQ page. There are some good tips and suggestions for dealing with the police in a situation like yours.

Good luck. Please call my firm if you have any questions or need any help.

My best,

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Answered on 7/29/08, 8:44 pm
William Morrison Action Defense Center

Re: do i give a voluntary statement to Police

No. Thank the detective and tell him (her) politely "No thanks". If there are no other eye witnesses and the "victim" was not treated for injuries, the case should not proceed.

If there are credible witnesses or a serious injury, your meeting with the police will not help you at all. They are looking for a confession. You do not have to talk.

If you really clobbered him or hit him more than once, you need a lawyer.

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Answered on 7/29/08, 10:30 pm


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