Forced Florida Confessions And Unlawful Questioning
Law enforcement officials sometimes turn to interrogation to access information about a crime. While it makes sense that police officers want to access the truth, a person charged with a crime still has rights and should not be pushed into a false confession. Wrongful convictions have followed forced confessions. Sometimes law enforcement pressures an alleged criminal because they believe the individual is guilty or an officer may be pressured by higher ranked officials to close a case.
The Innocence Project, a group committed to clearing individuals who are wrongfully convicted, has stunning statistics about how common false confessions are. Thankfully, these issues have come to light in recent years and criminal defense lawyers can help individuals who are unfairly treated. If you want to retract a confession or are unsure how to move forward after a Florida arrest, talk to a Clearwater criminal defense lawyer at King Law Group.
Unlawful Questioning, Coercion, and Privileged Communication
Using physical force to obtain a confession is against the law; however, violence and physical harm are not the only tactics used to persuade individuals to confess to a crime. An individual may be told that a confession is in their best interest and be given false promises about the outcome of their case.
Some examples:
- Law enforcement participating in unlawful questioning: Most people are familiar with Miranda Rights, the list of rights an officer will recite, which include the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer, among others. A lot of people don’t know that you don’t have to be arrested for the Miranda Rights to apply. If you are in police custody and being interrogated, you are entitled to your Miranda Rights. Statements, including full confessions, could be tossed out if you have not been appropriately advised of your Miranda Rights.
- Coerced confessions: It is against the law for police to obtain an admission of guilt through tricks, intimidation tactics, or force. These strategies violate your civil rights and the statements collected through these forms of misconduct could be inadmissible.
- Privileged communication: Some statements and conversations are private and protected, including communication with spouses, doctors, lawyers, and religious leaders. There are exceptions, but protections are in place.
Florida criminal attorneys have years of experience navigating the legal system and understand the state and federal laws surrounding criminal charges. If you believe any of the above tactics apply to a confession or statement you may have given, contact a Clearwater criminal defense lawyer at King Law Group today.
Interrogators Usually Do Not Have Authority to Promise a Lesser Charge
When a person is stressed and worried, they may cave and confess to a crime they didn’t commit when a lesser charge is promised by law enforcement. But in reality, police officers typically can’t guarantee a lesser charge. When there is evidence a confession was coerced, there are legal steps that can be taken.
Connect with a Clearwater criminal defense lawyer at King Law Group to learn about what options are available for you. Your innocence could be established with legal representation.
Were you subjected to unfair treatment and led to say untrue things before, during, or after your arrest? You need a skilled lawyer to advocate for you. Criminal defense lawyers have the experience to defend you and secure the best resolution possible, whether the crime was serious or minor. Connect with King Law Group to understand your options. Schedule your free consultation today.
