If you lie to the police in Michigan, you can be charged with a crime.

You do not have to talk with the police, but you cannot lie to them. A new law created new felony and misdemeanor charges for false statements to the police.

Lying to the Police is either a Felony or Misdemeanor Crime Depending on the Circumstances

Michigan Penal Code MCL 750.479c has been amended to make it a crime to lie or conceal material facts from a police officer conducting a criminal investigation. In other words, lying to the police is a crime. Any person who is informed by a police officer that they are conducting a criminal investigation shall not knowingly or willingly do any of the following:

Conceal from a police officer, by trick, scheme, or device, any material fact relating to that criminal investigation. Make any false or misleading statement regarding a material fact in a criminal investigation. Issue or provide any written document to the police officer that the person knows is false or misleading regarding a material fact in a criminal investigation.

It is Better Not to Speak with the Police

This statute does not prevent anyone from invoking their Fifth Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution or declining to speak to a police officer regarding a criminal investigation.

Suppose you are charged with a felony or a misdemeanor offense involving resisting and obstructing the police, obstructing justice, or making false or misleading statements to the police. In that case, you need the assistance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer who has the skill and tenacity to stand up and protect you in court. The lawyers with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. are widely known for protecting and defending clients in the most challenging circumstances and can help you or your loved one. If you face charges for a crime involving lying to the police, call us as soon as possible for a free consultation.

Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys

If a police officer has advised you that they would like to speak with you regarding a criminal investigation, it is always a good idea to speak with a criminal law attorney. The attorneys at LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. have decades of experience as criminal law attorneys and an unparalleled track record of successfully protecting and defending clients on all felony and misdemeanor charges in Michigan. Remember that lying to the police is a crime, so do not speak to them or invoke your right to remain silent under the 5th Amendment.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete a Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.