No matter how innocent you are, being arrested can be a frightening experience. If you’re charged, your constitutional rights are at stake, and it’s crucial to understand what steps to take if that happens. So here’s what to do if you get arrested:

Remain calm.

When you get arrested, it is essential to stay calm and not do anything that will escalate the situation. Do not resist arrest by trying to escape or fighting with police officers. If you run away from the police, they will likely chase after you and use force against you.

Don’t give up your right to remain silent.

One of the most important things to remember when being arrested is that you have a right to remain silent. This right is protected under the Constitution, meaning you don’t have to talk to the police if they try to question you. If they ask what happened or what your involvement was in a crime, don’t answer. You can just say, “I want my lawyer.”

Ask for a lawyer.

Even if you aren’t under arrest, you still have the right to seek a lawyer if the police stop you on the street and want to question or temporarily detain you. 

For example, if they stop your car, they must inform you that “you do not need to answer any questions.” You can use this time to contact a defense attorney similar to Sawtooth Defense Lawyers to aid you with your case. 

Don’t touch or handle any evidence or anything around you.

You should be aware that anything you say or do while in custody can be used against you in court. While answering questions or providing information may feel natural, it is important to remain silent until your attorney is present.

You should not handle any evidence or anything around you. You should also avoid eating, drinking, smoking, talking with anyone (in person or by phone), signing anything, or answering any questions by law enforcement officers other than your name and address.

Do not resist arrest, even if you believe the arrest is unfair.

The first rule of resisting arrest is never a good idea. Even if you believe the police officers’ actions were unjustified, resist, and you could get hurt, injured, or even killed. 

If you are resisting arrest, the police will have no choice but to use force to restrain or subdue you—and they have much more experience in this field than most people. In fact, just attempting to resist arrest could result in you being charged with a more serious crime such as assault or battery on an officer.

If a cop asks if they can search you, say no.

You can be a hero, but it’s not worth getting arrested. If a cop asks if they can search you, tell them no. It’s best to politely decline and explain that you don’t consent to any searches.

While this might seem a no-brainer, many people are afraid of being rude or confrontational with officers (especially if they’re holding their kids). But when it comes down to it, there is absolutely nothing wrong with telling an officer that you don’t want them searching your person or property.

If the officer persists in asking for permission and refuses your polite refusal, consider calling a lawyer immediately so they can speak on your behalf while things are quiet and calm!