PA Law Firm Issues Vital Guide on Police Encounter Rights

In response to growing public questions about police procedures, traffic stops, and searches across Pennsylvania, the law firm Perna & Abracht, LLC has issued a crucial public advisory aimed at empowering residents with knowledge of their constitutional rights during police encounters. The guidance, announced from Kennett Square, PA, comes from experienced criminal defense attorneys who regularly witness individuals unintentionally compromising their legal positions due to confusion during stressful interactions with law enforcement. Attorney Ryan G. Borchik emphasized that the advisory provides clear, general information to help community members make informed decisions, highlighting that understanding these rights is fundamental to ensuring fairness and accountability.

The firm's rights-based guidance outlines five essential principles every Pennsylvania resident should know. First, individuals have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic identification, and invoking this right early can protect against self-incrimination. Second, in many situations, people may refuse consent to searches of their person, vehicle, or home unless officers have a warrant, probable cause, or specific legal authority, with the firm advising a clear statement: "I do not consent to a search." Third, individuals may ask if they are free to leave during an encounter; if told yes, they can walk away, but if told no, it signifies a detention where additional rights apply. Fourth, the right to legal representation is paramount—anyone questioned, detained, or arrested should speak with an attorney before answering questions to avoid misunderstandings. Fifth, remaining calm and not resisting, even if the encounter seems unjustified, is crucial to prevent escalation, with any violations to be addressed later through legal counsel.

The advisory also notes responsibilities, such as providing identification during certain traffic stops, and stresses that knowledge of rights reduces confusion, fear, and unintended legal consequences. Perna & Abracht, LLC, established in 1947, is a full-service law firm serving Chester County and surrounding areas, with attorneys licensed in multiple states including Pennsylvania, Texas, Colorado, and Arizona. For more detailed information, residents can schedule a complimentary consultation, as the firm aims to bridge the gap between legal protections and public awareness without providing case-specific advice, ultimately fostering a more informed and empowered community.