If I Tell the Police my Side of the Story, Will That Avoid Me Getting Arrested or Charged?

A common but mistaken belief is that I should be able to tell the officer my side of the story and the officer will then let me go. However, that is almost always not the case. By giving your side of the story, what you're giving them is evidence. Even if it's true and even if what you're telling them shows that you're innocent, it can still be used against you, because police will often interpret that in a different way than you do. That's why it's always best to remain silent, not give your side of the story, and tell them that you do not want to talk to them without having an attorney present.