Oh, yeah, even with traffic stops, you're totally right. Don't "boldly proclaim" anything. Be humble, even as you keep this in mind.
I've been asked at traffic stops at least 3x, by police:
> You don't have any drugs in here, right? Don't mind if I take a look?
What do you say?
> Nope, no drugs!
Great, you've consented to a search.
> No, officer, I don't consent to a search of my vehicle.
They might still search, but now their search is without probable cause _and_ your consent, which means even if they _do_ find drugs in your car, your lawyer will be able to spring you easily.
Cops do take advantage of those who cannot afford lawyers, but a way you can set yourself up for success is guide the interaction in such a way that a lawyer would have no problem proving the cops violated their own guidelines.
I've been asked at traffic stops at least 3x, by police:
> You don't have any drugs in here, right? Don't mind if I take a look?
What do you say?
> Nope, no drugs!
Great, you've consented to a search.
> No, officer, I don't consent to a search of my vehicle.
They might still search, but now their search is without probable cause _and_ your consent, which means even if they _do_ find drugs in your car, your lawyer will be able to spring you easily.
Cops do take advantage of those who cannot afford lawyers, but a way you can set yourself up for success is guide the interaction in such a way that a lawyer would have no problem proving the cops violated their own guidelines.