People generally misunderstand their rights. For example, you have the right to refuse a breath test, but if you do, your license will be automatically suspended for one year (or more, depending on your record).

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The police must advise you of your rights if they intend to question/interrogate you (Miranda Warnings), but they do not need to advise you of your rights to arrest you. That’s “movie law.”

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Some rights have time limits – like the formal defenses of insanity and self-defense. Your right to a jury trial can even be in jeopardy if not requested within the guidelines of the law.

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So it’s important to get someone on your side to explain what your rights are and how they apply to your case. Don’t wait.