1100 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 365
San Antonio, Texas 78213
Tel. (210) 979-9777
Fax. (210) 979-9774
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care about your
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This web site is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation
of a lawyer/client relationship. Persons accessing this site are encouraged to seek independent counsel for advice regarding their individual legal issues.
Not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Copyright © 2008  The Báez Law Firm, P.C. All Rights Reserved!
Criminal Law
What are your rights when a police officer stops you on the street?
Can they stop you to ask questions? When can an officer arrest you?

There are three basic types of interactions between officers and
citizens: the encounter, the investigatory detention, and the arrest.

An encounter occurs when a police officer approaches a citizen in
public and asks questions but has little reason to believe that a crime
has occurred. During an encounter, you do not have to answer the
questions nor do you have to identify yourself to the officer. You are
free to walk away.

If the officer has “reasonable suspicion” of criminal activity, the officer
can detain you and investigate. To meet the standard of reasonable
suspicion, the officer must be able to articulate facts of criminal
activity. Reasonable suspicion is a low burden for a police officer to
meet.

During an investigatory detention, an officer can require a citizen to
disclose his name and show a form of identification.

Furthermore, during an investigatory detention, if the officer believes
his safety is at risk, he may briefly pat down the citizen for weapons.

To arrest a citizen, an officer needs probable cause that the citizen has
committed or is committing a criminal offense.

Probable cause means that given all the circumstances, a crime
probably occurred. Probable cause is also a low burden for the officers
to meet.

If you have been wrongfully accused of a crime, please contact The
Báez Law Firm, P.C., we can help you during this difficult time.
THE BAEZ LAW FIRM, P.C.
"We Care About Your Legal Needs"
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PHYSICAL LOCATION:
1100 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 365
San Antonio, Texas 78213
Tel. (210) 979-9777
Fax. (210) 979-9774
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