In the last few days I received many questions from supporters, readers of my articles and books, and just plain citizens requesting that I write a “warning list” of five to ten items never to do or don’t do. Many of these “tips” are already laid out in Legal Minds, the book I co-wrote with Dr. Davidson, but I’ll reveal a few…five of them! I believe it to be a noble project that will help those unable to afford my books. These five tips could save your life or prevent harm to you, so remember them carefully.

1) Females (and males), avoid parking in a parking garage if you’re most likely to return to your vehicle when no one else is around, or if there’s no security escort, late in the evening, or after dark. Park on the street or in a “manned” parking garage instead. (guys, this is a prime place for arm robberies, for females, rape! If simply unavoidable, or an inconvenience, choose the first floor or a floor monitored by cameras, or a floor near an exit. Avoid letting others park your vehicle (sorry valet parkers). Think other people or escape routes when parking! Oh another thing, avoid parking next to vans, especially tinted ones! Before entering your vehicle, especially an SUV, look on the rear floors! Many criminals have “purposely” worked for locksmiths and hardware stores to hone their skills, so don’t think they can’t enter your vehicle. If a stranger just happens to offer you assistance when you noticed a flat tire on your vehicle, be cautious…he might have just flatten it!

2)      Be wary of walking, running, and exercising in “out the way parks”, national forests, desolate areas (especially walking trails, unless you’re not alone or walking with a big dog). Constantly look ahead for potential danger, forward, left to right, and occasionally behind you. Criminals are more likely to strike in the rear! Also, it’s a  good idea to carry a big stick, or a piece of iron. A dog is your best protection.

3)      When working in your garden, taking out the trash, or lounging in your yard, lock all doors, even for a short time period of time. Utilize a shredder for personal documents, and purchase “fake” decal stickers warning crooks you have an alarm (they work!). Place a large dog bowl or if a female, a large pair of men’s boots outside near your side or rear doors. In other words, you’re not alone”. Always avoid taking trash out after dark. Walk around your property and “think” like a criminal. Ask yourself, where is my weak spot?  

4)      If stopped by a police officer in a traffic situation, cut the small talk and take the ticket. Don’t make deals or otherwise attempt to talk your way out of the citation. Many people, especially females, have gotten themselves in a lot of trouble attempting this maneuver. Rogue cops are “looking” to make deals. Be respectful, but also be cautious. Trust but verify!  If the cop “hits”on you, take the citation quickly and report him or her to the internal affairs department (this is a violation). Also, if you’re ever stopped by an “unmarked” car, immediately go to the nearest police, fire station, or at the very least a convenience store. If he’s legit he or she will understand. If issued a citation because of this maneuver, speak with a supervisor at police headquarters the next day (not the cop’s station supervisor). The DA won’t prosecute these types of issues!

5)      As for as your child, trust no one, male or female. Sex offender registries are full of even females molesting children. When your child tells you about a physical or odd event, listen! Instruct your adolescence child (between 13 –16 years of age) to always call you and not make a statement if brought down to police headquarters. Tell them to insist on having YOU present (If police interrogates a minor without the parent’s permission or the parent’s presence, that’s a violation). Your children 17 years and above, (they’re legally considered adults in most states) instruct them to request an attorney before giving a written or oral statement. In other words, SHUT UP AND REQUEST AN ATTORNEY!  (You and I know that 17 year olds are not really adults). The very first question that all attorneys ask their clients are…what did you say to the police? A good client is the client that didn’t incriminate his or her self (the constitution gives all of us that right). Remember, your only true advocate is your attorney! For others it's a job!

These are only a few tips, but very helpful if remembered! They cover home safety, traveling in your vehicle, common police encounters, and safety for your precious children. I really wish for everyone that they may go through life without experiencing violence and/or bad cops. Take care!

Your brother Robert