The Police Called You — Should You Be Worried?

What You Should Know Before Speaking With Law Enforcement

Receiving a phone call from the police can be unsettling. Many people immediately begin to worry and wonder what they should do next.

You may ask yourself questions such as:

  • Why are the police calling me?
  • Am I in trouble?
  • Should I return the call?
  • Do I need a lawyer?

Understanding your rights and the possible reasons behind the call can help you make informed decisions.

Why Would the Police Call You?

Police officers may contact someone for a variety of reasons. In some situations, they may simply be gathering information.

For example, they may want to:

  • Ask questions about an incident
  • Speak with a potential witness
  • Clarify details related to an investigation
  • Identify individuals involved in a situation

Sometimes officers may say that you are “not a suspect” and that they simply want to talk.

However, it is important to understand that statements made during a conversation with law enforcement can sometimes be used later in an investigation.

Should You Call the Police Back?

Every situation is different, but many criminal defense attorneys recommend speaking with a lawyer before returning a call from law enforcement, especially if the matter could involve a criminal investigation.

There are several reasons for this.

You May Not Know What the Investigation Is About

The police may not explain the full situation during the initial contact.

Your Statements Could Be Misinterpreted

Even when someone intends to cooperate, statements may sometimes be misunderstood or taken out of context.

You May Not Know What Evidence Police Already Have

Without understanding the full circumstances of the investigation, it may be difficult to determine the best way to respond.

What Should You Do If the Police Contact You?

If you receive a phone call from law enforcement, consider taking the following steps:

Stay Calm

Receiving a call from the police does not automatically mean you are being charged with a crime.

Do Not Rush Into Giving Statements

You may politely inform the officer that you would like to speak with a lawyer before answering questions.

Avoid Discussing the Situation With Others

Statements made to friends, family members, or online could potentially become part of an investigation.

Consider Consulting a Criminal Defense Lawyer

An experienced attorney can help you understand the situation and determine the best way to respond.

When Should You Speak With a Lawyer?

You may want to consult a lawyer if:

  • Police ask you to come in for questioning
  • Officers repeatedly attempt to contact you
  • You believe you may be involved in a criminal investigation

Early legal advice may help prevent misunderstandings and protect your rights.

Speak With Perliss Law Firm

If law enforcement has contacted you or you believe you may be under investigation, it may be helpful to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Perliss Law Firm represents individuals facing criminal investigations and charges in California. Our team works to protect clients’ rights and provide guidance during complex legal situations.

📞 Call Perliss Law Firm today for a consultation
(626) 323-9108

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a call from the police mean I am a suspect?

Not necessarily. Police may contact individuals for many reasons during an investigation.

Should I ignore the call?

Every situation is different. Before responding, it may be helpful to seek legal advice.

Is it wrong to ask for a lawyer?

No. Requesting legal advice is a right and is often an important step in protecting yourself.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Our Simple Process

1
A telephone
CONTACT US
2
A document
FREE CONSULTATION
3
A magnifying glass
CASE INVESTIGATION
4
A trophy
RESULTS
California Lawyers
Avvo Rating
best of best review winner 2025 badge
Pasadena Magazine Top Attorney
Perliss Law Firm 2025 badge expertise
Avvo Clients Choice

Client Reviews

Reviewer Profile
Google
Vincent R.
5 Stars

"I personally was recommended to Sanford Perliss. My situation was dire. After our first meeting I Immediately felt relieved, I knew I was in good hands. He handled the case diligently and with the utmost professionalism. I don't know where I would be without the help of this man.  Thank you Sandy, I will recommend you to anybody I know."

Google
Reviewer Profile
Brian L.
5 Stars

"I can’t thank Perliss Law Firm enough for their outstanding representation. I felt confident I was in good hands from the moment I walked into their office. They explained every step of the process regarding my case and made sure I was fully informed about my options. Perliss Law Firm is professional and cares greatly about their clients. Highly recommend!"

Google
Reviewer Profile
Jessica M.
5 Stars

"Perliss Law Firm’s attorneys are extremely experienced and skilled。 They treated me with respect and were always available to answer any questions I had. I am extremely grateful and would recommend their firm if you’re looking for a dedicated and trustworthy defense team."

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Perliss Law Firm
Sign up for our newsletter for essential legal insights and tips!
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and provide consent to receive updates from our firm.
Copyright © 2026 Perliss Law Firm. All Rights Reserved.
Designed by:
Lab Coat Marketing