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Actions to Take After an Altercation

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  • When police arrive. Try to spot them first and attract them in a non-threatening manner. At first, the police may treat you like a suspect, especially if you have a weapon. Do as you are told. Do not question or argue with them.
  • Call your lawyer. Make no statements to the police or anyone else until your attorney is present. If possible, try to have your lawyer meet you at the scene. Tell the lawyer exactly what happened and let him/her do the talking for you. If you must meet the police by yourself, do not make any statements. Explain to the police politely, but firmly, that you will not talk until your attorney arrives.
  • Remain silent. Remember, you have the right to remain silent and anything you do or say can, and probably will, be used against you in a court of law. Police officers know the key to survival is to stay silent and wait for your lawyer but they may try to make you feel guilty for not talking to them. No police officer would make a statement a police shooting without a police union lawyer or a Fraternal Order of Police attorney present. The police will be on your side when all the facts are out, so be polite but do not be overly concerned about their initial impression of your silence.
  • Medical treatment. When the medical assistance arrives, get medical treatment for shock for yourself and any other person involved whether physically injured or not.
  • Stay away from the news media. Never talk or make any sort of statement to them. Let your attorney make any statements for you. Remember the news media has no authority; you do not have to talk to them.
  • Legal Actions. You are justified in using lethal force only if you "feared for your life" or that of another person. Do not apologize for defending yourself. Avoid statements such as "I am sorry I had to hurt him" or "I regret the incident happened." Such statements are equated with feelings of guilt. Since you are showing remorse, it is assumed you actions were inappropriate. Such statements may be used against you in a court of law.
  • Stress. Persons involved in self-defense incidents face a great amount of stress. Psychological or physiological problems may appear. These problems are common and affect even trained soldiers and law enforcement officers. If you encounter any problems, seek professional help.

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