Law enforcement investigators utilize a variety of resources and methods to get the truth from suspects in question. One of the most popular tools they use is a lie detector test. If you are facing serious criminal charges,especially for felony crimes, you may be asked by police to take a lie detector test. Would you say acquiesce? Or would you refuse?

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about police lie detector tests, including advice on whether or not you should take one.

Polygraphs

Lie detector tests, also known as polygraphs, measure human vitals as a person answers a series of straightforward questions. Supporters of polygraph testing believe that these tests can detect the physical effects of lying, such as perspiration, blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and more. But are these tests really accurate?

There is really no way to be sure of polygraph accuracy since there are so many variables that can affect the results of a test, such as instructor experience, the format of questions being asked, the style in which the results are interpreted, and more.

Furthermore, being tested in such a way adds stress in itself; a person could be telling the truth, but the test will measure their words as a lie simply because they are nervous. So it is very difficult, if not impossible, to distinguish between physical changes that come from lying and those that come from being under the scrutiny of such tests.

Lie Detector Evidence

Basically, lie detector tests do not confirm whether or not a suspect is being dishonest, but rather, whether or not there is a possibility that they are being dishonest. Since lie detector tests do not meet the standards of dependability obligatory for scientific evidence, such results are typically inadmissible as evidence in a court of law.

To Agree or Not to Agree

Back to the original question of whether or not you should agree to take a polygraph when asked by police, the answer is always, NO. Always say “no” when asked to take a lie detector test. Instead, you must always consult with your Indianapolis criminal defense attorney before answering any police questions.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Near You

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your criminal charges with a seasoned Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation!