What Should I Do if I’ve Been Arrested?

This is what you need to know when police tell you that you’re under arrest:

If you have been arrested, it is important to remain calm and to follow the instructions of the police officers who have taken you into custody. Here are some steps that you can take if you have been arrested:

Do not resist arrest.

It is so important that you cooperate with the police officers and to avoid any physical confrontations. Resisting arrest can result in additional charges being brought against you, and can make your situation worse. Resisting arrest can be a felony in California! You can be charged with resisting even if you’re not charged with any other crimes, and even if you’re wrongfully arrested otherwise.

Ask for a lawyer.

You have the constitutional right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during any questioning by the police. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you. It is important to exercise this right and to have a lawyer present to protect your interests. If you’re not sure what type of lawyer you should contact, check out our guide “What type of lawyer do I need?”

Do not make any statements without a lawyer present.

Anything that you say to the police can be used against you in court, so it is important to avoid making any statements without the guidance of a lawyer. When we were prosecutors, we saw many people admit to crimes that might have been otherwise impossible to prove. You can’t talk your way out of trouble, but you can definitely talk your way into it.

Follow the instructions of the police officers.

While you are in custody, it is important to follow the instructions of the police officers who are handling your case. This will help to ensure that your rights are protected and that the process goes smoothly. The best time to fight a wrongful search or seizure (an arrest is a seizure, too) is in court with your attorney. Too many people resist a wrongful arrest that we could have had dismissed, but can still be charged with resisting or obstructing.

Get the best lawyers you can.

Once you have been released from custody, it is important to stay in touch with your lawyer and to provide them with any information that they need to help with your case. Your lawyer will be your best advocate and will be able to provide you with the guidance and support that you need to navigate the criminal justice system.

If you have been arrested and believe you may be charged with a crime, or if you have already been charged and are waiting on your next court date, call Gomez, Radford & Rome, LLP immediately. Time is of the essence. We can fight for you even before charges are filed or before you ever go to court, so don’t wait. Call (213) 204-2007 for a free consultation.

If you have any questions about your criminal case, we can help to get you started. If you have any questions about how, one of our attorneys will be happy to speak with you.

Call (213) 204-2007 to speak to a Criminal Defense Attorney now!

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Disclaimer: The information contained in our articles is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The situations discussed are purely hypothetical and may not be applicable to your individual case. Nothing in these articles should be construed as forming a lawyer-client relationship or as a guarantee of a particular outcome. If you have specific legal questions or are facing criminal charges, please contact the law firm of Gomez, Radford, & Rome to discuss your case. Only a qualified attorney can provide you with legal advice based on the specific facts of your case.