When the police or investigators show up at your door to make general inquires relating to a criminal offence, you do not have to answer any of their questions. You have the legal right to remain silent even when not being formally charged for a criminal offence.
Unfortunately, not many people are aware of this right. As a result, people often feel compelled to fully cooperate with law enforcement, only to find themselves becoming a “person of interest in” a crime, a suspect, or actually being charged with the offence. Depending on the situation that you are in, it is often better to keep your silence and politely decline to answer any general inquires or questions.
If the police officer or investigator insists that they need to question you, tell them that you wish to have legal representation. Having access to a lawyer provides you access to legal advice about what you should and should not do. Every situation is different.
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