Your Rights in Relation to a Search Warrant
1. See the Warrant - Always ask to see the search warrant. Check the following details: Your address is correct, The items being searched are clearly described, Any conditions listed such as providing pin number to mobile phone. If anything looks incorrect, you can point it out. However, it’s a bad idea to obstruct officers or get combative.
2. Remain Silent - Beyond providing your name and address if requested, you don’t have to answer any other questions. Politely decline and say, "I would like to speak with a lawyer before answering further."
3. Respectful Treatment - Police should treat you fairly & respectfully during searches. They may not use unnecessary force or cause unnecessary damage to your property, unless explicitly authorised by the warrant.
4. Right to Legal Advice - While the police are conducting their search, you’re within your rights to contact a lawyer. The lawyer can offer you real-time advice if you’re unsure about how to proceed.
What to Do If Police Show Up With a Warrant? - It’s probably going to be stressful for most people if this happens. We strongly suggest you contact a lawyer at that point & follow these steps.
Step 1: Stay calm and composed, Step 2: Ask for police ID & warrant, Step 3: Don’t give consent If not required, Step 4: Monitor the search but do not obstruct officers, Step 5: Keep your answers simple prefer no answers except your name), Step 6: Get a aeceipt for any seized Items. Call us!
