What should you do after an arrest?

Being arrested is a terrifying experience. It is extremely challenging to keep your cool and handle the situation the right way because it is so intimidating and overwhelming. However, the steps you take immediately following your arrest will make a difference in the outcome of your case. 

Whether you have been arrested for a misdemeanor or a felony, you need to remain level-headed and know what to do — and what not to do.

Immediately After An Arrest, Do:

• Stay calm. You might feel compelled to push the police off of you or get them to hear your side of the story. The police are not on your side, no matter what. Becoming aggressive will only make the situation worse.
• Be respectful of the police. This is not easy, especially if the police are disrespecting you. But, if you are combative or rude to the police in any way, you are giving them an excuse to take things too far. Be as courteous as possible.
• Remember your right to remain silent. Remaining silent is your right and it does not make you look guilty, although the police may try to trick you and say it does. It is better to say nothing than to say something that would be used against you.
• Contact an attorney as soon as possible. You have the right to speak to an attorney where you are being held. Do not share any information with the police, other than your name and address, until you have talked to an attorney.
• Make a note of the details. Your attorney needs the facts to build your defense. Try to remember the details of your arrest. If possible, write them down. Why did police stop you? Did they search your property? Did they have a warrant? These details can be critical for your attorney to be able to get the best results for you.

After An Arrest, Do Not:

• Resist arrest.
• Attempt to escape.
• Volunteer information to police.
• Give the police consent to search your home, car or other property.

Knowing what to do when arrested can make or break your case. Often, it is not possible to predict that you could be arrested. Share this post with the people you care about so they know what to do if they ever find themselves in police custody.

If you or someone you care about has already been arrested and is in need of legal counsel in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, contact the Law Office of John J. Leunig for a free criminal defense consultation.