Crime and Your Rights

• Everyone has a right to remain silent - it is a fundamental right in this country. Some exceptions include interviews for alleged terrorism offences.

• You should ALWAYS speak to a lawyer experienced in the field if the police wish to interview you. The same applies to a water bailiff, Worksafe officer, Vicroads officer, and so on. If there is any doubt, call your lawyer as soon as possible to get important advice as to your basic rights.

• If the police ask you to do an interview or arrest you for some purpose, your ONLY obligation is to give your name and address.

• If you cannot speak to your lawyer, say your name and address and say “no comment” to any further questions. That is YOUR RIGHT.

• You also have the right to NOT incriminate yourself. So any question where the answer might put you at the scene of a crime should be declined with a polite “no comment.“