Bad Costume Idea, Good Traffic Stop Idea | Utah Defense Attorney Tip of the Week

When you see the flash of red and blue lights behind you and hear the familiar wail of sirens, it’s enough to send your heart beating. In an instant, your mind runs through the possibilities, “How fast was I going?” “Did I get that brake light fixed?” “When does my vehicle registration expire?” But what do you do when the policeman comes up to your window?

At the end of the interaction, you may face a ticket, or you may face a mandatory court appearance. Whatever the situation, it’s essential to be respectful, courteous, and smart when dealing with legal officials.

What Doesn’t Work

Let’s say you were asked to appear in court after your encounter with an officer. And maybe you were issued October 31 as your hearing date. Appearing in court dressed in your Halloween costume—especially if it’s a heavy-duty orange jumpsuit—is not an option. Even if your girlfriend thinks you look hot in bright-colored onesies, the courtroom is about professionalism. And besides, it may put thoughts in the judge’s mind that you don’t want him to have.

What Works

When dealing with police, don’t be naïve. Often, traffic stops are initiated so that the officer can look for evidence of more serious crimes. 

When interacting with police, remember that what you say can and will be used against you. Even simple questions by the police can be designed to trap you. For example, what do you say when an officer asks if you know how fast you were going? It’s a tricky question. On the one hand, if you say “yes” and then answer any number other than the posted speed limit, they can use that to show you were speeding. If you say “no,” your statement will be used against you to show your inattentiveness. The right answer is simple. Instead of admitting guilt or carelessness, say, “Yes, I believe I was going the speed limit.”

While getting pulled over can be nerve-wracking, how you handle the situation can make a big difference in the outcome. Staying calm, being respectful, and knowing what to say (and what not to say) can help you navigate a traffic stop wisely. And if you do end up in court, remember—professionalism matters. Save the costumes for Halloween parties, not legal proceedings. When in doubt, consult with an experienced defense attorney to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome.