Can you talk to a cop?

The topics in the Dial-A-Law series provide general information on legal issues within the Province of Alberta. Police are able to talk to anyone that they like, like any other citizen. But you have the right to remain silent and are not obligated to tell them anything.

What happens if you dont talk to police?

You are not obliged to say anything. If you do not want to answer questions, you should tell the Police outright that you do not wish to be interviewed at all. The police cannot say that you are guilty because you will not talk to them.

Why you should never talk to a cop?

You cannot talk your way out of being arrested and you cannot give them any information that will help you at trial. Anything you say can be used against you but it does not work the other way around where it can work for you. The judge will dismiss it as “hearsay” and it will not help you in court.