Philadelphia Vehicle Stop Attorney

Pulled Over by Police? Know Your Rights. Protect Yourself.

Being pulled over is stressful—but you still have rights, and how you handle the stop can impact your entire case. Whether it’s a traffic violation, DUI investigation, or search, I help clients understand their rights and fight back when police go too far.

At Thomas & Robbins LLC, I represent people charged after unlawful traffic stops, improper searches, or roadside interrogations. I’ll examine every detail of the stop—and work to suppress any evidence obtained illegally.

Your Rights During a Traffic Stop

During a vehicle stop, you have the right to:

  • Remain silent
  • Refuse to consent to a search
  • Ask if you’re free to leave
  • Record the encounter (as long as it doesn’t interfere)

Police must have a valid reason—probable cause or reasonable suspicion—to pull you over or prolong the stop.

If they:

  • Pulled you over for no reason
  • Searched your car without consent or cause
  • Detained you too long without justification
  • Asked invasive questions without reading your rights


…then we may be able to suppress the evidence and challenge the charges.

Vehicle Stops FAQ

Your Questions Answered

  • Can the police pull me over for no reason?

    No. Law enforcement must have reasonable suspicion that a traffic violation or criminal activity occurred. If they can’t justify the stop, any evidence gathered afterward—like drugs or weapons—may be inadmissible.

  • What should I say during a police stop?

    Stay calm, provide your license and registration, but don’t answer questions beyond basic identification unless you choose to. You have the right to remain silent, and exercising that right can protect you from unintentionally incriminating yourself.

  • Can police search my car during a traffic stop?

    Only under certain conditions—like probable cause, plain view of contraband, or with your consent. If the search didn’t follow legal requirements, I’ll work to suppress the evidence and challenge the stop in court.

  • What if they pulled me out of the car without explanation?

    Police can ask you to exit the vehicle during a stop, but they can’t search or detain you further without cause. If they escalated without legal justification, I’ll investigate and fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed.