What Should You Do If you’re Arrested?

No one wakes up and expects to be arrested for going about their daily business. However, many people, rightly or wrongly, experience this. In fact, Statistica has the number of people arrested in 2023 alone at over 7.55 million.

If you’ve seen any type of crime show or listened to a true crime podcast, you will know that not everyone who is arrested is actually guilty.

Whether you’re guilty or innocent, being arrested for the first time can be overwhelming. It’s crucial to stay as calm and collected as possible. These are some expert tips on navigating your arrest and getting through the process.

Stay Silent

You do indeed have the right to remain silent; however, not everyone invokes this. It’s recommended that you don’t answer questions until you have spoken to our lawyer. Don’t offer any answers, explanations, or comments on anything, and keep tight-lipped until you acquire legal representation. You do, however, have to tell the police you are going to remain silent so they know, and then don’t say another word.

Don’t Resist

This is where incidents can and will escalate, so it is important that whatever else is going on around you, you do not resist. Always comply with any orders you are given and take slow actions to show you aren’t going to cause trouble and you’re going to do what is asked of you. This can be tricky in a very intimidating situation, and your flight or fight response might kick in, but resisting the urge to run or lash out can improve your safety and those around you. Remember, resisting arrest can lead to additional charges and potentially dangerous situations.

Get A Lawyer

Leading nicely from the last point, always ask for a lawyer. Criminal Defense Attorneys can be of assistance post-arrest and help you get through the process. They can advise you on your rights, represent you in court, and ensure that your rights are not violated during the arrest and subsequent proceedings. You will be given the opportunity to make one phone call. The police cannot listen to your phone call if you call your lawyer, but if you call anyone else besides your lawyer, they can listen, so be mindful of this so you don’t incriminate yourself.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

This is highly important, especially before you arrive at the police station. While you likely won’t be able to or have the chance to record, especially if you’re not expecting to be arrested, be aware of others around you who are or might be witnesses to events. This is especially important if you suspect police brutality or wrongful arrest. The witnesses and evidence you have to back you up, the better it will be. But do not resist or cause confrontation when being arrested simply be aware of what is happening around you.

Stay In Police Custody

This might be obvious after all; you are arrested, but it’s worth reiterating, especially as you might not be in complete control of your actions if you’re in a heightened state of stress or self-preservation. Do not try to escape. This won’t end well for you and will make things worse. Stay in custody until you are allowed to leave.