An arrest can upend life as you know it. You could find yourself behind bars, even if only temporarily, and the news of the event can negatively impact your employment and your relationships with your loved ones. But at the time of your arrest and the minutes, hours, and days afterwards you need to focus on your criminal defense. After all, your actions shortly after your arrest can significantly impact your defense options and their chances of success.
What you should and shouldn’t do if you’re arrested
When you’re arrested, there are things you should and shouldn’t do to protect your interests. Here are some things you shouldn’t do when you’re arrested:
- You shouldn’t resist arrest, as doing so could lead to additional criminal charges.
- You shouldn’t talk about your case with others who can later be subpoenaed by prosecutors to testify against you.
- You shouldn’t consent to a search that would lead to the discovery of incriminating evidence.
- You shouldn’t provide the police with the passcode for your phone.
But there are certain actions you should take when you’re placed under arrest. This includes doing the following:
- Acting on your right to remain silent and to have an attorney represent you.
- Asking for a phone call as quickly as possible so that you can contact your attorney.
- Trying to remain calm and refrain from giving into the sneaky tactics the police use to try to get you to talk.
- Documenting everything you can about your arrest.
- Avoiding doing anything that could incriminate you.
Protect your rights after your arrest and build an aggressive criminal defense
Your criminal defense starts before you’re even arrested. So, if the police come looking for you, you need to be ready to get to work building your case. If that’s something that you want help with, then consider securing the advocacy you need to fully protect your interests.