Has a detective called you and asked you to surrender or turn yourself in?
Have police officers shown up at your door and asked you to answer questions?

If you’re contacted by law enforcement and asked to visit a police station for questioning or to turn yourself in, it’s essential to stay calm and understand your rights. Whether you’re facing a potential investigation or simply being asked to assist with information, how you handle the situation can have significant consequences.

Here’s what you should know and do if you find yourself in this position:

1. Understand That You Have Rights

Right to Remain Silent
The most important thing to remember is that you have the right to remain silent. If law enforcement contacts you — whether by phone, email, or in person — you do not have to answer any questions without a lawyer present. This right is guaranteed by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

Anything you say can be used against you later in court. Even seemingly harmless statements may be misinterpreted or taken out of context. Do not speak to police without first consulting a criminal defense attorney.

Right to an Attorney
If you’re asked to come in for questioning or to turn yourself in, you are entitled to have an attorney present during questioning. You can request an attorney before answering any questions, and police are legally required to stop questioning you until your lawyer is present.

This right applies whether you are formally arrested or not.

2. Don’t Voluntarily Turn Yourself In Without a Lawyer

Police may tell you that things will go “easier” if you voluntarily come to the station. Do not go without first speaking to a criminal defense lawyer.

Police officers are legally allowed to lie during investigations. They may downplay the seriousness of the situation or suggest they just want “your side of the story.”

A lawyer can advise you on:

• Whether you actually need to go to the police station
• What charges you may be facing
• Whether surrender can be arranged strategically
• What questions you should or should not answer

Turning yourself in without legal counsel can put you at a serious disadvantage.

3. Ask to Speak to Your Lawyer Immediately

If contacted by police, politely and firmly say:

“I would like to speak with my attorney before I answer any questions or come to the station.”

Even if officers say you are not under arrest, you are still within your rights to refuse questioning without counsel present. They cannot legally punish you for exercising your constitutional rights.

4. Document Everything

If police contact you by phone, email, or in person:

• Ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and contact information
• Save voicemails, emails, or text messages
• Write down what was said and when

If they give you a deadline or request that you come in at a specific time, note that as well. Your lawyer can use this information to communicate with law enforcement and manage the situation properly.

5. Do Not Trust Interrogation Tactics

Being contacted by police can be intimidating. Officers may say they are simply trying to “clear things up” or “hear your side.” Remember: they are investigating a potential crime.

Their job is not to protect you — it is to build a case.

Anything you say can potentially be used against you. Stay calm and let your attorney handle communication.

6. Know What Happens After You Turn Yourself In

If, after consulting your lawyer, you decide to surrender or appear for questioning, here’s what may happen:

• You may be fingerprinted and photographed
• You may be formally arrested
• You may be read your Miranda rights
• Criminal charges may be filed

After arrest, you could be released, required to post bail, or held pending further proceedings depending on the nature of the allegations.

Your attorney may be able to coordinate a controlled surrender, minimizing time in custody and protecting your rights from the start.

7. Never Lie to the Police

While you have the right to remain silent, you do not have the right to provide false information.

Lying to police about your identity, whereabouts, or involvement can create additional criminal charges and damage your credibility later. The safest approach is simple: remain silent until you speak with your lawyer.

Reach Out to a New York City Criminal Defense Lawyer

Navigating interactions with law enforcement is complex and risky without proper legal representation.

If you’ve been contacted by a detective or police officer, speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. A lawyer will:

• Explain your rights
• Communicate with law enforcement on your behalf
• Help you avoid self-incrimination
• Develop a strategy to protect your freedom and future

If you’re unsure what to do, contact the Law Offices of Matthew Cohan at 516-375-1107 for a free, confidential consultation. We will work to protect your rights and ensure you are not pressured into a situation that could harm your case.