Beyond asking for directions, I won't say word one to a cop without consulting my lawyer first.

It feels awkward, particularly, for example, after being pulled over by a traffic cop. But that's EXACTLY what the cop is counting on: that you'll feel awkward employing your right to keep your mouth shut and so will talk about how you know you broke whatever law he's trying to bust you for breaking.

Remember: it is illegal and/or incriminating to lie to a cop. It is NOT illegal for them to lie to you.

And yeah, if I were witness to a murder or other major criminal act I would DEFINITELY consult with my lawyer before talking to the cops. And have him/her present for questioning. It's important not only from a criminal aspect, but with recent rulings regarding good Samaritans there could be civil repercussions from being involved in any way with a major crime, including being an innocent bystander who either does something or does nothing.

Not talking to a cop is a right for a reason. And it just makes good common sense to not waive that right until you've explored all of the possible ramifications of telling a cop anything.

That said, there was a recent incident in my neighborhood where an alleged bank robber was eluding police on foot near a middle school. He was tracked and apprehended because neighbors called 911 to report the guy jumping back yard fences (eventually the guy was cornered by the cops and shot to death after allegedly brandishing a weapon). This is NOT the sort of situation I am talking about. I'm talking about a cop wanting to conduct an interview/questioning/interrogation.

Now if I had SEEN the police shooting the suspect and the cops investigating the shooting wanted to interview me, yeah, I'd have my lawyer there FOR SURE.