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October 2025 eNewsletter Issue no. 110

Three Things to Know When Pulled Over

Just about everyone has been pulled over by the cops in their vehicle at one time or another. When that occurs, most people are at a loss to understand what is legally required of them when approached by the officer. In this video, Partner Stefano Molea discusses three things everyone should know to best navigate the situation.


First, you are required to provide the police with your license, registration and insurance card. You are not required to answer questions about where you were headed, what you were doing, where you were coming from, or even whether you have been drinking. Stefano suggests you state simply that you are not interested in answering any further questions.


Second, you should be aware that if you do decide to speak with the cops during the traffic stop, you will likely not be protected by Miranda. Your rights under Miranda only apply when you are in custody and being interrogated. Everyday traffic stops tend not to qualify as requiring Miranda rights. As a result, anything you say can be used against you; thus, less is more!


Third, do not make sudden movements during the traffic stop. Understand that the cop has a job to do and is concerned with their safety too. Even if you are upset, don’t do anything to delay getting safely back on the road and to your intended destination. 


Finally, hire a locally experienced criminal defense law firm to help you fight any charges that result from the stop. Fight your case in court and not on the street!

What Have We Been Up To Outside the Office & Courtroom This Past Month, You Ask? 

What have we been up to outside the office and courtroom the past month? A lot! This past month has featured the Firm anywhere and everywhere in San Diego County, (pictured clockwise from the top right): (1) at a High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) session at Elite Madness Fitness; (2) Team bonding and problem solving at Lara’s Labyrinth Escape Room; (3) David giving his “Protect Your Freedom. Protect Your Future. Know Your Rights” presentation to an Adult Mentor Group at Youth Empowerment; (4) David, Elmira, and Stefano attending the Annual Gala for the South Asian Bar Association of San Diego; (5) David and Elmira at San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program’s “Justice for All” Celebration, at which the Firm was the music and entertainment sponsor; and (6) most recently, David and Elmira with Dave Fox at Fox Law’s 11th Annual Charity Event on October 16 in Del Mar.

David P Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys


Phone: 619-295-3555


davidpshapirolaw.com/


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This newsletter is for meant for informational and marketing purposes only, and should not be relied on as legal advice. Viewing and/or use of the newsletter, including sending email or submission of forms, does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship. Any endorsement, testimonial or other statement contained in or referred to in this newsletter is not a guarantee, a warranty or a prediction of a particular result in your case. Our attorneys are active members of the State Bar of California and are admitted to practice law in any and all California state courts and in the Southern District of California federal courts.