Summary
When questioned by police in Western Australia, remain calm, ask if youre under arrest, and exercise your right to remain silent. Request a lawyer before answering questions. Police can search your home with consent, a warrant, or under certain urgent conditions. Its generally advisable not to consent to a search without a warrant. Giving a statement can be risky; consult a lawyer first. Determine if youre a witness or suspect by the nature of questions and police statements.Full Conversation
A police officer is questioning me about a robbery they think I participated in. What is the best response?
Hi ****,
If a police officer is questioning you about a robbery, it's important to:
- Remain calm and polite.
- Ask if you are under arrest.
- You have the right to remain silent.
- Request to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.
Would you like more details on your rights?
Yes
Hi ****,
Here are more details on your rights when being questioned by the police in Western Australia:
- **Right to Silence**: You are not required to answer any questions except for providing your name, address, and date of birth.
- **Legal Representation**: You can request to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.
- **Police Caution**: The police must inform you of your rights before questioning you.
Would you like information on how to contact a lawyer?
Under what circumstances can police search my home?
Hi ****,
In Western Australia, police can search your home under the following circumstances:
- With your consent.
- If they have a search warrant.
- Without a warrant if they believe it is necessary to prevent an offence, or if they have reasonable grounds to believe that evidence may be destroyed.
Would you like more details on any of these points?
Should I ever give consent for police to search my home?
Hi ****,
It's generally advisable not to give consent for police to search your home without a warrant. Consenting to a search waives your right to challenge any evidence found. Always request that they provide a search warrant.
Would you like more information on what to do if police show up with a search warrant?
Does giving a statement to police ever help me?
Hi ****,
Giving a statement to the police can sometimes help, but it can also be risky. It's important to:
- Speak with a lawyer before making any statement.
- Understand that anything you say can be used against you in court.
Would you like more information on how to find a lawyer in Western Australia?
Under what circumstances should I give a statement to the police?
Hi ****,
In Western Australia, you should consider giving a statement to the police under the following circumstances:
- After consulting with a lawyer who advises it is safe to do so.
- If providing information could help clear your name or assist in an investigation.
- If you are a witness and not a suspect.
Would you like more detailed advice on finding legal representation?
how do I know if I am a witness and not a suspect
Hi ****,
To determine if you are a witness and not a suspect, consider the following:
- **Nature of Questions**: Are the police asking for your observations or your involvement?
- **Police Statements**: Have the police informed you of any charges or potential charges against you?
- **Rights Notification**: Have you been read your rights?
Would you like more detailed advice on identifying your status or finding legal representation?