Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Living in Chicago, you might encounter law enforcement in a variety of situations—on the street, during a traffic stop, or even in your own neighborhood, whether that’s Englewood, Lincoln Park, or South Shore. Regardless of the location or reason, one of the most common and misunderstood moments is when officers start asking questions without making an arrest.
It’s crucial to understand that in Illinois, you do not have to answer police questions unless you are under arrest—and even then, you have the right to remain silent and request a Chicago criminal defense lawyer immediately. The line between a casual interaction and a criminal investigation can blur quickly. What seems like a minor inconvenience could escalate into formal charges if you’re not careful.
Whether the potential charge is a misdemeanor like disorderly conduct or a felony like drug possession or aggravated battery, what you say to the police—even before an arrest—can be used against you in court.
