If you admitted to having drugs on you during a police interaction in Florida, here's what you should understand from a criminal defense attorney:
The Legal Landscape:
- Self-Incrimination: Unfortunately, admitting to possessing drugs strengthens the officer's case against you. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in court [Florida Statute § 901.17].
- Probable Cause: Your admission likely gives the officer probable cause to search you and potentially your vehicle for the drugs you mentioned.
What to Do Now:
- Stay Calm and Polite: Do not resist arrest.
- Remain Silent: You don't have to answer any further questions about the drugs or other incriminating details. Politely say, "I'd prefer not to answer any questions without an attorney present."
- Contact an Attorney: As soon as possible, consult with a criminal defense attorney. They can advise you on your legal rights and next steps, potentially including challenging the search or negotiating a plea bargain.
Important Considerations:
- Illegal Search: Although you admitted to having drugs, there's a chance the officer's search may not have been legal. If they searched you or your vehicle without probable cause or a warrant, your attorney can explore ways to suppress the evidence they found.
- Cooperation vs. Silence: While remaining silent is your right, in some cases, cooperating with the investigation can be a strategic decision your attorney can help navigate. It's important to weigh all options together.
- Just Because You Admitted It, Doesn’t Mean You Will Lose the Case: While confessing to the police does add another challenge to your case, it isn’t the final nail in the coffin at all. You can still get a favorable outcome, it’s one of the reasons why you need to hire a defense attorney to challenge, scrutinize, and hold police accountable for every single part of the interaction that led up to that point.