Any time the police believe you are committing a crime, it is possible that you will be detained. If you get arrested, there are several things you should know to do.
Know Your Rights
When the police pull you over or show up at your door, it can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it helps to know your rights. While it is not advisable to resist arrest, you don’t have to consent to having your property, such as your home or your car, searched without a warrant. You also don’t have to answer any questions. It’s not your job to help build a case against you. You don’t have to say anything, particularly without your attorney present.
Call for Assistance
Most states allow those who have been detained to make a phone call to family. They can also contact Washington County bail bonds to secure their temporary release from jail and an attorney to represent them. The police may offer you a deal if you cooperate, but this may be a sly way of getting a confession out of you. Wait for your attorney before you feed them any information. You do not have to advocate for yourself alone, and it’s important to have as much professional assistance as possible.
Stay in Contact
One of the worst things you can do after you are bailed out of jail is disappear. You need to remain reachable, particularly by your attorney and bondsperson. Show up for the preliminary hearing to find out if you will be formally charged with a crime. Your attorney can advise you through every step of the process until you are either released, acquitted or convicted.
Getting arrested can be scary, but it doesn’t always turn out badly. Knowing your rights and understanding each step of the process can help you through it.