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What to Do if Cops Want to Search Your Car

If you are ever pulled over by law enforcement, and they ask to search your car, you might need clarification on your legal rights in such a situation. Among the numerous rights afforded to you by the U.S. Constitution, one is the ability to be safeguarded from unreasonable searches and seizures.

If you have questions about what to do if cops want to search your car, our team at Rossen Law Firm can help better understand your legal rights. An attorney can also help you take vital steps to safeguard your rights if you are being accused of a crime or have been charged.

Understanding Your Legal Rights When Cops Want to Search Your Car

If a cop wants to search your car, you should know you have the legal authority to refuse their request. Just because a police officer asks to search your car does not mean you have to offer them your consent. You are often acting within your rights if you politely refuse that request.

However, there are particular instances in which it is lawful for cops to search your car. For example, if the police officer has a warrant, it would be considered lawful for them to search your vehicle. Likewise, if the police officer acts based on probable cause, such as in a situation where they see items of an illegal nature inside the vehicle, any search conducted subsequently may be seen to have occurred on a legal basis.

If a cop asks to search your car and you consent to the search, any subsequent vehicle search and seizure of items contained therein may also be considered lawful. As such, if law enforcement pulls you over and they do not have a warrant or probable cause to search your vehicle, you do not have to say yes if they ask to search.

The law does not require you to consent to a vehicle search without a warrant or probable cause. You are not obliged to respond to inquiries from law enforcement.

Obtaining Legal Representation After Your Car Is Searched

Sometimes, a vehicle search will go nowhere, and no further action will be taken by law enforcement. In other cases, after cops search a vehicle, they may use evidence collected to file formal criminal charges. If you are facing a situation where you are being accused of a crime or have had charges filed against you after a vehicle search, obtaining legal representation is crucial.

If the law enforcement officer proceeded with the search despite your lack of consent, any evidence they procured could be considered illegally obtained, and an attorney can fight to get that evidence thrown out in court. Even if it turns out that the police officer conducted a lawful vehicle search, there may be a wide variety of avenues of defense to explore.

An attorney can get to work on your case from day one, even during the investigation period before formal charges are filed. You will need a lawyer with established relationships with the state attorney’s office and extensive knowledge and experience in defending a wide range of alleged criminal offenses. An expert attorney can pursue all options to get your charge reduced or even dropped while tirelessly pursuing an optimal result for your case.

Get Help from Our Award-Winning Defense Team

When it comes to knowing what to do if cops want to search your car, it is crucial to understand that you are entitled to protect yourself from unlawful searches. Remember, if cops want to search your vehicle, say no.

If you are experiencing a situation where your car was recently searched by law enforcement and now you are facing potential criminal charges, you must speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Contact our DUI team at Rossen Law Firm today to get started.

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Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
Google Reviews
kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
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