Right to Remain Silent
In the United States you cannot be forced to testify against yourself. This means you do not have to answer any questions posed to you by law enforcement and I would add - don't answer any questions regarding the allegations posed by anyone. The news media like to say that so-and-so is "not cooperating" with the police when they are actually invoking this Right. I say "Damn right I'm not cooperating!" Do not help the people that want to put you in jail. Rule Number One: Keep your mouth shut.
Right to have Legal Representation
Hire an attorney or have one appointed. When you are accused of a crime and threatened with loss of liberty you have a right to be represented by a lawyer. Get one as soon as possible. One that you feel comfortable with and one that you believe can and will do a good job representing you. Rule Two: Hire an attorney.
Right to have Attorney Present during Questioning
If you want to say something to law enforcement discuss it with your attorney. After he or she tells you to stay quiet and you still want to open your mouth you have the Right to have your attorney present. Have him or her there. Hopefully you have discussed what you want to say before hand and your attorney has coached you to not say the wrong things. Rule Three: Say Nothing without Your Attorney Present.
