CapeCodShooter
New member
Lots of conflicting advice here, and as a retired attorney with more than thirty years of practice I can state that there's a good reason for the conflicting answers. Sometimes speaking to the first LEOs on the scene will help. Often it will hurt. I, and every lawyer, will tell our clients to shut up, because we don't know whether or not they will say the right thing or the wrong thing. We err on the side of caution.
If you choose to speak, speak the truth. A lie will cook your goose. And don't guess. A wrong guess will be considered a lie. Second, the first words out of your mouth, to 911 and to the first responders, will be "[I've been/I'm being] attacked. They [are/were] going to kill me," or words to that effect. Third, if you are taken to the station, tell the LEOs that you will be happy to cooperate but demand your attorney. Say NOTHING further until your attorney arrives. Demand doesn't mean bang the table. It simply means an unequivocal statement that you want your attorney present before you are asked any questions.
Ayoob's recommendations remain the closest thing to the golden rules. Even sticking to Ayoob's recommendations won't establish the defense of justification, though. That's a whole different kettle of fish.
If you choose to speak, speak the truth. A lie will cook your goose. And don't guess. A wrong guess will be considered a lie. Second, the first words out of your mouth, to 911 and to the first responders, will be "[I've been/I'm being] attacked. They [are/were] going to kill me," or words to that effect. Third, if you are taken to the station, tell the LEOs that you will be happy to cooperate but demand your attorney. Say NOTHING further until your attorney arrives. Demand doesn't mean bang the table. It simply means an unequivocal statement that you want your attorney present before you are asked any questions.
Ayoob's recommendations remain the closest thing to the golden rules. Even sticking to Ayoob's recommendations won't establish the defense of justification, though. That's a whole different kettle of fish.