Legal Question in Traffic Law in Michigan
I was pulled over for speeding. When being given the ticket the cop told me not to go to court and said it in a manner where I felt very threatened. On top of that, he was being very unprofessional and vulgar, cursing a lot. I talked very quietly and kindly to him but he acted this way regardless. Is there anything I can do?
1 Answer from Attorneys
You want to be very careful how you tread when dealing with the police. The proper response often depends on which department you are dealing with and, for that matter, which officer you are dealing with. I would suggest you seek advice from an attorney who handles traffic matters, who may be familiar with this officer. He may have a track record for abusive behavior. He may be a high-ranking officer with a spotless record and great reputation.
Generally speaking, when an officer acts unprofessionally you can speak to his supervising officer and make a report. Again, you want to be careful. Your report should reflect the officer's behavior - not YOUR behavior OR feelings. Don't make yourself sound like an angel ("I talked very quietly and kindly to him..."). It sounds cheap. Also, the officer is responsible for telling you not to go to court. He is NOT responsible for you feeling threatened. Anyone else may have had a different response to the officer. If you come off as a thin-skinned crybaby, the supervising officer may not take your complaint seriously.
Again, try and get advice from an attorney who is familiar with the officer.
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