When the police question you, it’s natural to assume they must tell the truth. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. In the United States, including New York, police officers are legally allowed to use deception during interrogations. They may claim to have evidence that doesn’t exist or suggest that confessing will lead to leniency. These tactics are designed to get people to talk, even when staying silent is the smarter choice.
Understanding how police interrogations work and knowing how to respond can make the difference between protecting your rights and making a mistake that harms your case.
Police Can—and Do—Lie During Interrogations
The Supreme Court has long held that police deception does not automatically violate a suspect’s rights. Officers are trained to use psychological strategies that encourage suspects to talk. Common lies include:
- Saying that they have fingerprints, DNA, or surveillance video linking you to a crime
- Claiming that an accomplice has already confessed
- Suggesting that you will get a lighter sentence if you “just tell your side”
- Pretending to be sympathetic or on your side
These tactics are meant to create pressure and confusion. Even innocent people can start to doubt themselves or think that cooperation will end the interrogation faster. In reality, anything you say can and will be used against you in court, no matter how friendly or persuasive the officer seems.
Why Innocent People Confess
False confessions might sound rare, but they happen more often than you think. People may confess because they are scared, exhausted, or convinced that cooperating will help. Teenagers and individuals with cognitive limitations are particularly vulnerable. In New York, high-profile exonerations have shown how deceptive tactics can lead to wrongful convictions.
Once a confession is made, even if it’s coerced, it can be difficult to undo. Judges and juries often see a confession as strong evidence of guilt, even when the facts suggest otherwise. That’s why it’s so important to understand your rights before answering any questions.
You Have the Right to Remain Silent and You Should Use It
If you’re being questioned, remember one rule: you don’t have to talk. The Fifth Amendment gives you the right to remain silent. You must clearly state that you are invoking that right. For example, you can clearly invoke your right by saying:
“I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want to speak with an attorney.”
Once you say this, questioning should stop until you have legal representation. But officers may still try to engage you in casual conversation or make it seem like cooperating will help. Don’t take the bait. Stay calm, remain silent, and wait for your attorney.
What To Do If You’re Being Interrogated
If you are approached by law enforcement or find yourself in an interrogation room, here’s what to do:
- Ask if you’re free to leave. If the answer is yes, leave immediately and contact a lawyer.
- Stay polite but firm. Arguing or lying can make the situation worse.
- Don’t guess or volunteer information. Even minor details can be twisted later.
- Request an attorney. This stops questioning and protects your rights.
Invoking your right to counsel is not an admission of guilt—it’s a smart legal decision. The sooner a criminal defense attorney is involved, the better your chances of avoiding missteps that could hurt your defense.
How The Fast Law Firm Can Help
At The Fast Law Firm, we defend clients throughout New York City who are facing questioning, investigations, or criminal charges in both state and federal courts. We understand the interrogation methods police use, and we know how to challenge statements that were obtained through coercion or deception. Our attorneys act quickly to protect your rights, review how evidence was obtained, and ensure that law enforcement is held accountable for improper tactics.
We also help clients who have already been questioned or arrested. Even if you’ve spoken to the police, you still have options. A defense lawyer can review whether your statements were voluntary and fight to exclude them from court if your rights were violated.
Protect Your Rights Before It’s Too Late
If the police want to question you, remember: they are not on your side. Their goal is to gather evidence, not to help you. The best thing you can do is stay calm, remain silent, and contact an experienced defense attorney right away.
At The Fast Law Firm, we represent clients in New York City who are under investigation or facing criminal charges. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the guidance you need before speaking to law enforcement.
