LANSING POLICE/INGHAM COUNTY SHERIFF TIPS

If you are pulled over by a Lansing Police Officer or Ingham County Sheriff's Deputy, you only have to identify yourself or produce a driver's license if you are driving.  You do not have to answer any other questions.  You can tell them that you will not answer their questions without your attorney being present.  If asked, never consent to them searching your vehicle. If they do search your vehicle, make sure it is known that it is without your consent.   Finally, you have a right to record the officers up until the time you are placed under arrest. 

If you are pulled over for suspected drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs, you should follow the advice regarding being pulled over by a Lansing Police Officer.  In addition, the officer cannot compel you to perform field sobriety tests.  You can refuse the onsite preliminary breath test (PBT) and only receive a 2 point ticket.  However, once placed under arrest and taken to the station, you are required to submit to the Chemical Datamaster Breath Test.  After completing the test, if you do not believe the results are accurate, you can request your own independent blood test. 

If a Lansing Police Officer or Detective contacts you about a potential crime, you need to be aware of what is really happening.  Usually, the first to report a crime, even falsely, is deemed to be the "victim".  This means you are a criminal suspect and the police are trying to get incriminating statements from you.  Even if you are innocent, the police will try to trick or confuse you into making such statements.  Never talk with a Lansing Police without having an attorney present.