Hey there

Another Tuesday, another legal insight to help you deal with real-life situations like a pro. 

This week, you’ll learn something that everyone who owns a car needs to know...

If I had a cent for every time someone forgot these 5 golden rules when cops pulled them over, I’d be getting pulled over in a Lambo.

What should you do when the cops pull you over?

Picture this: You’re driving home. The sun’s going down. Your fuchsia 30 oz Stanley cup is full to the brim with Dr Pepper, ice cubes clinking away. You’re re-listening to your favorite episode of the Talk Tuah podcast for the 14th time. 

Life is good. 

Suddenly, you see the red and blue lights flashing in the rearview mirror. 

Next time this happens, keep your cool and remember the 5 golden rules: S.P.A.C.E!

1. Stay in the car

When you get pulled over, your first move is simple: stay put. Cops are trained to expect danger. Stepping out of the car can make them think you're about to pull a fast one – either fight or flight.

Stay seated, hands on the wheel. 

2. Politeness first

First impressions count, even with the police. Avoid being confrontational. Throw in some small talk if it feels right. 

Staying calm and respectful can work in your favor – it’s much easier to navigate a situation when things are going smoothly. 

3. Ask the right questions

When things seem to be heading south – like if the cops are getting a little too curious or you're being asked to stay put – these questions can help keep your rights in check:

Remember: If they start asking questions like, “Where are you headed?” or “Where are you coming from?” you are always free to politely say: “I’m not going to discuss that with you today.”

If it feels like you’re being pressed, clearly say: “I’m invoking my Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and would like to speak to a lawyer.”

4. Comply (if ordered to step out of the vehicle)

If they ask you to step out of the car, stay calm and comply. Ask politely why they’re asking but follow their instructions... they do have the right to request this during a traffic stop.

If anything feels unfair, remember that you can challenge it later.

5. Evidence for court

If you think the officer’s overstepping, don’t argue or fight it there. The best place to fight it is in the courts... not in the streets.

Just take a mental note and write down all the details as soon as you get the chance. 

Better yet, try to record the interaction if you can... even if it’s just your phone in your pocket or on the seat. If they’re arresting you, they might take your phone, so keep it low-key.

Then, just let the legal process do its thing.

Sadly, knowing your rights isn’t as common as it should be. Share these rules with anyone who could use a refresher... it could make all the difference in a tough moment.

How well do you really know your rights?

Knowing what to do if you get pulled over is just the start. 

Your rights cover so much more... like spotting when your landlord’s taking advantage or staying out of trouble in everyday situations.

I’m putting together some easy-to-follow guides on the basics to keep you one step ahead at all times.

Want early access? Hop on the waitlist here!

Can you sue someone for selling you a haunted house?

Halloween is over. But for some, the spooky season never stops. Believe it or not, a house can be legally haunted. It all started with one legendary case:

Stambovsky v. Ackley, aka the Ghostbusters case

• A buyer purchased a house, unaware that the entire town believed it was haunted.

• The seller had been sharing ghost stories about the house with the media, making its spooky reputation well-known locally.

• Despite the house’s ghoulish reputation, the buyer had no idea about it. 

• The court ruled that because the haunted reputation was so widely known, the seller should have disclosed it.

• Outcome: The buyer got his money back, and the case became legal history.

• Key takeaway: In New York, if your house is known for being haunted, you need to let potential buyers know.

Turns out, different states have different rules for what a seller needs to disclose. If you want to see how this kind of case would be decided in other places, make sure you check out this post!

That’s it for today. Until next Tuesday, this case is closed.

But if you’re hungry for more legal insights already, make sure you go check out some of my recent posts... links are at the bottom of this email!

Speak soon

Mike