If I was involved in a fist fight with employees at a restaurant and now a detective wants to question me about it, what should I do?
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If I was involved in a fist fight with employees at a restaurant and now a detective wants to question me about it, what should I do?
The group of guys I was with and I initiated the altercation then we left. Now, 2 weeks later I have received a letter in the mail from the local police department inquiring about an incident that I may have knowledge about, and to contact the detective as soon as possible. Do I need to hire an attorney before I contact the detective?
Asked on July 13, 2015 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Under no circumstances speak with the police without an first having consulted with an attorney. You are under no obligation to do so, even if the police come to your home. You could inadvertently say something incriminating either about yourself or others. The fact is that questioning you without your having legal counsel is to their benefit. Make no mistake, they will try to get you to make an admission to implicate yourself.
At this point, you need to speak directly with a criminal law attorney ASAP.
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