National Lawyers Guild RNC Update
National Lawyers Guild
"Can I talk about my case?"
The NLG strongly advises people who were arrested during the RNC to not talk and to not write about the specific circumstances of their arrest if they have pending cases, without first speaking with a lawyer. This applies to the particular acts just before and during the arrest. Please be aware that statements made on the Internet, as well as videos/photos shared or posted, reside in the public domain, and are not private or privileged; they may be viewed by law enforcement. The NLG recommends having such material reviewed by a lawyer before making it public. Be aware that if you are talking to the media, posting emails, having phone conversations about your case or otherwise publicly speaking about your arrest or the arrests of others, you are potentially sharing that information with the police. It may result in problems if you have a pending case. If you assume the government may monitor telephone and email communications, even if the government's action may be illegal, yo
u will better protect yourself and others.
While you may want to comment on how you were treated after your arrest (e.g., experiences in custody, conditions at Pier 57, the length of custody until arraignment or release on a DAT), be sure to note and save what you say or write; if future statements differ, your prior statements may return to haunt you.
