How to Avoid Going to Jail under 18 U.S.C. Section 1001 for Lying to Government Agents by Solomon L. Wisenberg.
Great post but Wisenberg buries his best advice twelve paragraphs into the story. (Starts with: “Is there an intelligent alternative to lying….”)
Memorize this sentence:
I will not answer any questions without first consulting an attorney.
That’s it. Short, sweet and to the point. Make no statements at all other than that one. No “I have nothing to hide,” etc.
It’s like name, rank, serial number you see in the old war movies. Don’t say anything other than that sentence.
For every statement a government agent makes, simply repeat that sentence. Remember, you can’t lie if you don’t say anything other than that sentence.
See Wisenberg’s post for the details but the highlighted sentence is the only one you need.