Below, DC criminal attorney David Benowitz answers questions about arrests and searches in DC.
David Benowitz: The answer is no.
David Benowitz: I always advise people to be as polite as possible. You should be just very polite and politely decline to have your vehicle, for example, searched. The answer to the question, “Well, if you have nothing to hide, then why do you mind, why do you care if I search your car?” Again, I wouldn’t advise answering the questions. I would, again, just politely say, “I do not want you to search my car. Sorry.” In this country, you don’t have to let anyone search your car, or your house … unless they have a search warrant. Then you don’t have a choice. But barring that, you don’t have to consent. And that’s what our constitution guarantees. You should never feel bad about standing on your rights. Just do it politely. There’s no reason to get in a fight about it.
David Benowitz and his firm are the best strategic and compassionate teams you will work with. Mr. Benowitz and his team are diligent and proactive, which is further enhanced by David’s methodic and strategic approach to law. My case was a very complicated and emotionally charged case involving classified information, where I was facing three indictments, two carrying life sentences and one carrying 20 years. Mr. Benowitz utilized a network of lawyers coupled with his own strategy to navigate the case to success! I sincerely recommend David Benowitz quite literally with my life.
I found David to be very dedicated to fighting for your loved one’s rights. I also highly appreciated the fact that David kept us informed and empowered throughout the whole process.
Mr. Benowitz is an incredibly knowledgeable and dedicated professional. His commitments to social justice and community outreach are exemplary. I wholeheartedly recommend him for any matter.