We Fight to Protect Your Rights

Getting arrested is a difficult situation for anyone. You might feel like you don’t deserve this type of treatment which could leave you angry. Venting your anger or frustration while in custody could result in making the problem worse than it already is. Handling yourself well will allow you to limit the amount of trouble that you find yourself in. Here are some of the dos and don’ts you should keep in mind after getting arrested.
Do Be Polite and Respectful
Being arrested is an uncomfortable situation for anyone to be in. When you’re under arrest, your treatment will likely depend upon your actions immediately following the arrest. If you are rude to the arresting officer, they may only make things more difficult for you. If you are nice and polite, they will go through the process faster, avoiding any delays. It can be difficult to be nice and polite, especially if you’re innocent of the charges. Just remember that you’re doing it for your own well-being and to get out of your current situation as quickly as possible.
Don’t Claim You Need Medical Attention
The only time that you should ask for medical attention after being placed under arrest is if your life is at risk. While you may think that this will keep you out of jail longer, it will actually only prolong the process. Since you’re delaying it, you could end up spending more time in jail than if you had simply surrendered and gone through the process. Your goal should be getting out of this situation as quickly as possible and going directly through the process will allow you to do that.
Do NOT Speak with Police: Talk to an Attorney FIRST
When you’re placed under arrest, there are certain legal rights that are there to protect you. These include the right to remain silent and the right to refuse any searches. The police officer is required to read you your rights once you’re placed under arrest. You should avoid volunteering any information as it can and will be used against you. If the police officer asks you any questions, ask to have a lawyer present instead of answering them. You also have the right to refuse any searches of you or your belongings. This will protect you should anything be found that could be used against you in court.

Don’t Resist Arrest
The most important thing when you’re being arrested is to remain calm. No matter the circumstances, you should comply with the police officer. If you’re innocent, that information will come out after the arrest. Resisting arrest will result in further charges. If you’re innocent and would be released, they could still charge you with resisting arrest which could cause further trouble. Rather than being confrontational, allow the processing to take place as quickly and easily as possible. Once that’s completed, you can speak with a lawyer about the best way to prove your innocence.
Getting arrested can be a difficult situation for anyone, regardless of your guilt or innocence. Understanding these dos and don’ts will ensure that you go through the arrest and booking process quickly and avoid any further trouble. Once you go through the process, you can seek the assistance of a lawyer to help you through the situation. Contact Ortega Law if you’re in need of a criminal law defense attorney in Anne Arundel County. Call us today at 410-886-7060.