Your First Steps After An Arrest
If you are arrested by police officers as a possible suspect in a crime, it is important that you know what you should and should not do. The first thing an individual should do is invoke your right to remain silent and request to speak with an attorney so you can better understand why you are being charged and what your options are.
WARREN COUNTY CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS: 513-496-0134
Things to keep in mind if arrested:
- DO NOT argue with the police, try to talk your way out, or explain your side
- DO NOT resist arrest – this could result in further charges
- DO NOT talk about your case with family or friends – they may be called as witnesses for trial
- DO pay attention to details of your interactions with the police, the arrest, and your experiences while in custody
- DO contact an attorney immediately
Even if you are only being investigated for a crime, it is critical to have an attorney help you through the process. In some cases, the investigation may result in illegally obtained evidence or otherwise violate your rights. In such instances, a skilled attorney may be able to get your charges dropped before anything is even charged.
Your Rights If You Are Arrested
Knowing your rights and properly exercising them can make a difference in the outcome of any criminal case.
After an arrest, remember that you have certain rights:
- The right to remain silent: You do not have to answer any questions about the alleged crime. Invoke this right immediately if you are arrested.
- The right to know why you are being arrested: Police officers must tell you why you are being arrested. If a warrant calls for your arrest, you have a right to read it. Even if you believe this is a false charge, do not try to resist.
- The right to an attorney: You are not obligated to answer questions without an attorney present. You have a right to have an attorney present with you while answering questions.
If you need assistance after an arrest, talk to our attorneys at Rittgers Rittgers & Nakajima.
Our offices in Cincinnati, Lebanon and Oxford can help you anywhere in Warren County, Oxford, Mason, and Butler.