RE: &quot;I want a lawyer&quot;, you are overthinking this. The intent is clear in the context: you want a lawyer present for any questioning.<p>While &quot;My lawyer would be happy to answer all your questions&quot; could be sufficient, why leave it to chance? Just be very clear since the situation could result in life-changing consequences: &quot;I am invoking my right to remain silent and will only answer questions with a lawyer present.&quot;<p>Edit: stop worrying about winning the hearts of police in a situation like this. Their interests are diametrically opposed to yours at that point in time. No need to be an asshole but you&#x27;re also not going to hurt their feelings by protecting your interests; and if they seem to take issue with your statement (social pressure is another interrogation tactic, BTW), just remember that this is not a social situation so their opinion of you is not relevant. Investigators are not going to lay off you just because they think you&#x27;re a swell person.