Unfortunately, the answer to these queries are not so cut and dry, but it is easy to understand. Continue reading to learn your rights to such privacy in Indiana, and what to do if you are confronted by law enforcement at your place of residence.
The Fourth Amendment
Every United States citizen has the right to a certain degree of privacy, as alluded to in our country’s constitution under the 4th Amendment, which reads “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, [a] against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” SOURCE
The Right to Decline
Citizens, in most cases, have the right to legally decline to open the door for law enforcement, as well as, terminate their opportunity for entry (i.e. shut the door after answering it to prevent further communication). However, there are always exceptions to every rule. If law enforcement retains the proper documents, such as search or arrest warrants, they can enter a person’s home, even without permission.The circumstances vary from case to case, which is why it is imperative to discuss your legal concerns with an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer. They have the knowledge, skills, and local resources to provide accurate answers and professional counsel you can trust.
How to React to Law Enforcement at Your Door
The best way to deal with law enforcement at your door is to simply answer it. If you are not aware of any crimes or charges against you, there should be nothing to worry about. Most often, if you are not suspected of a crime, police are simply in need of some neighborhood information, such as a missing person’s case, abandoned vehicles, and vacated apartment units. Otherwise, the police may believe you could be a witness to another person’s crime, and they need your help. If they do not have a warrant for your arrest, or to search your premises, you can shut the door and terminate your conversation at any time without legal recourse. As soon as the interaction is over, contact your defense attorney for further instructions. The police could be on their way back to the station to secure a warrant in some cases.