You’ve been handcuffed, and it’s frightening, so now, what happens?
Anyone who has ever been arrested knows that feeling, and it occurs more often than you think. Every year, more than 10 million Americans are arrested, and most of them are not busted for violent crimes but fall under the category of non-serious offenses. Legal experts are sharing what steps you should take after being arrested no matter what state you’re in.
1. Do Not Resist
It can be a confusing time when police are asking you questions, and then suddenly, you’re asked to place your hands behind your back, and you’re being cuffed. You simply want to know why you’re being arrested, and you have a right to protest verbally, but that’s about it.
The advice here is to peacefully submit to the arrest and not use force or any weapon in resisting nor make any threats of violence toward police. The penal code in every state spells this out quite clearly.
2. Invoke Your Rights
Remember that you have the right to remain silent, and you also have the right to an attorney. Invoke your rights. Tell the police that you do not want to talk except to give basic information such as your name, age and address.
Do not allow the police to try intimidating or clever tactics where you release incriminating information. Be careful of the conversations you are having with family, friends, strangers or fellow inmates, especially if being detained. Those conversations whether in person or on the phone could be monitored and recorded.
3. Reclaim Your Freedom
Every arrested individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty, and you learn that at a young age about the criminal justice system here in the United States. However, a lot of defendants end up behind bars because they are unable to pay for their release by posting bail. This can cause extreme frustration, fear and helplessness if you find yourself in this kind of predicament.
That is why reclaiming your freedom by getting out of jail fast can be achieved when you choose Los Angeles bail bonds. An expert bail bondsman will speak with you about the procedure and find the best option for you and one that fits your budget. This professional supports their clients and helps you cut through any judicial bureaucracy to get you home fast and begin managing your life again.
4. Make A Call
Under the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitution, every individual is guaranteed the right to due process. You are allowed to a make a phone call seeking help after being arrested. In most states, you have the right to make three phone calls or more for securing legal representation. You can also phone your family and bail bondsmen if needed. It bears repeating to assume that any calls you make while at the police station or in jail are being recorded. Legal experts advise not saying anything that might incriminate yourself.
5. Hire A Lawyer
If you’ve been arrested, at some point you will need legal assistance. Defending yourself in court is generally not a wise decision to make. You need to hire a lawyer as soon as you can. You can contact a public defender’s office in your city or town, but you can also look for an experienced defense attorney to help represent you in court for the crime you are being charged with.
Navigating the criminal justice system can be extremely complicated, and an experienced attorney will respect your rights and seek the best end result for your situation.
Conversations with your lawyer are confidential, and this professional will be there with you every step of the way beginning with your arraignment in front of a judge.
If you cannot afford an attorney, you still have a right to have an attorney appointed before you are asked any more questions by the police.
Be firm and say, “I want an attorney. I will not talk until I have an attorney.”
Being arrested is terrifying, and that is why it’s important to understand the steps you should take so that your rights are protected and you obtain the best possible outcome.
