WHEN Jabulani’s friend picked him up for work in a new car, he was happy his buddy had a new car.
Two blocks away from work, police pulled them over and Jabulani’s friend panicked.
The car was stolen!
Police recognised the number plates after the car was reported stolen, and Jabulani and his friend were arrested and taken to the police station.
If you are accused of committing a crime, you can get a criminal defence lawyer or attorney to defend your rights.
Luckily, Jabulani is a Scorpion Legal Protection policyholder, so he phoned his lawyer for help.
What should you do if arrested?
According to Jabulani’s lawyer, you have the following rights:
- You have the right not to say anything, as whatever you say could implicate you. But you have to give police your name and address.
- Do not sign anything, except the written explanation of the rights you are presented with after your arrest.
- You can insist on having a legal representative present if you have to take part in an identity parade.
Police can do the following:
- Take any prints they think are necessary for their investigation.
- Take a photograph of you.
- Have a doctor draw your blood for tests.
- Check your body to see if you have any distinguishing marks, features, condition or appearance.
You contact a criminal lawyer when:
- You’ve been accused of or charged with committing a crime.
- Police ask to question you.
- Police act in an irregular or unlawful way.
Can police search my car or house without a search warrant?
The Constitution protects your right to privacy, but it can be limited in certain circumstances.
If police don’t have time to obtain a warrant, but know that due to the case at hand, they would be able to obtain one under normal circumstances, they are allowed to search your car or house without a legal warrant.
But if you feel they acted inappropriately or unlawfully, you can dispute the matter.
How to strike back.
With the right criminal lawyer by your side, your rights will be protected and sentencing won’t be harsher than it should be.
Scorpion Legal Protection can provide policyholders with the necessary assistance, just like in Jabulani’s case.
To find out more about Scorpion Legal Protection, or to join, SMS the word “Learn” to 34453 and we’ll call you back.
Please note: This is only general advice and should not be relied on solely.
The law is very complicated and there are many influencing factors that can change the above.
