David Serna: What You Need To Know About Police Searches

For David Serna, one of the most common things individuals are afraid of is being intimidated by law enforcers to give up their rights unconsciously. While police officers are trained to perform their duties to protect the public with outstanding confidence and strength, some civilians fear that uniformed personnel may abuse their authority and power.

David Serna passionately believes in the constitutional rights and guarantees of individual freedom and liberty, which he exhibits in his style of practice. Even as a sole practitioner since 1977, he has received many coveted honors, held distinguished positions, and earned the respect of fellow defense lawyers, prosecutors, and judges. In 2007, Super Lawyers selected him as a criminal defense super lawyer, aside from being a white-collar defense and DWI defense super lawyer.

After handling numerous legal cases, David Serna believes that many civilians experience discomfort and anxiety when facing police officers. They act overly compliant because they respect them and rightfully fear the potential consequences of disobeying their commands. Being obedient and cooperative with the police is entirely right. However, David Serna believes that being overly compliant with officers may lead to giving consent to almost everything the officers say. Doing so, individuals may unconsciously give up the constitutional protections they have against improper interfering of the State in their private matters.

Although refusing to comply with what officers command may lead to a resisting arrest charge, David Serna believes that it is vital to say no clearly. It would be best to remember that saying no means you are asserting your lawful right as a private citizen. Most of the time, officers know that they cannot force you to submit to a search without probable cause, warrant, or incident to an arrest. However, if the officer insists that you comply, it is safer for you to contact a lawyer immediately, but stick to your no, so you could remain in control of your constitutional rights against unreasonable searches.

Remember that it is always safer for you to immediately a competent lawyer who can defend you and your legal rights. If ever you need legal assistance, David Serna is available for consultations during COVID. Either by email, telephone, video conferencing, and in-person visits under strict disinfecting protocol and masks requirements.