Mobile, AL asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Florida

Q: Do you have to answer cops if they asks you a question or do you have the right to remain silent/ leave the area

My friend was in his car in a apartment parking lot when all of a sudden two cop cars come out of nowhere one blocks he entrance and the other pulls up to my friend and starts asking him a bunch of questions like what is your reason here, do you have illegal substances. And not only that the cop tells my friend to step out of the vehicle and starts searching the vehicle without even asking and without a warrant. Now I know that was totally illegal but what about answering questions do you have the right to remain silent and leave the area or do you have to answer them?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Terrence H Thorgaard
Terrence H Thorgaard
Answered
  • Freeeport, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Of course you can refuse to answer, but leaving the area depends on other circumstances.

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