This phrase has been so overused that it has lost its meaning. Whether arrested or not, individuals should always exercise the right to remain silent. Anything a person says to law enforcement officers, reporters, cellmates, or even their friends can, and probably will, be used as evidence against them. This is a process in which the detective will ask you simple, seemingly harmless, questions and then type your response with it. The only thing this is is a written confession which will make its next appearance on a judge's bench.
Individuals have the right to have an attorney present during questioning.
Only a qualified attorney can ensure that the suspect or defendant does not say anything damaging. The right to remain silent should always be exercised. Yes, attorneys are costly and slimy, but they know the system and they know how to keep you from getting into more trouble than you already are. Sooner or later you're going to end up in a holding cell anyways- having an attorney will ensure you spend the least amount of time in jail. They will tell you that if you help lead them to a dealer, you will get a reduced sentence.