Getting arrested is a stressful experience, and it’s very easy to make crucial mistakes if you are not properly informed. By responding in the wrong way, you could inadvertently increase your chances of being convicted of a crime or receiving a harsher sentence.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when you’ve been arrested:
Resisting Arrest
If you’re being detained by law enforcement, you may be tempted to fight, argue, ignore the officer’s commands, or try to flee the situation. These impulses are understandable in an extremely stressful situation, but these actions are some of the worst choices you can make. Resisting arrest can result in additional charges and even escalate the situation so that it becomes dangerous. Being verbally belligerent to the officer is also a bad idea.
Talking to the Police
Police officers will ask you questions after you’re arrested. Even if you haven’t been issued a Miranda warning yet (“You have the right to remain silent…”), you should contact an attorney and speak to them rather than answering the officer’s questions. This is true whether your statement is oral or written. And if you’re placed in jail, don’t talk about the case to other inmates or on jail phones.
Not Thinking You Need an Attorney
You may think your arrest can be quickly resolved without the help of an attorney, especially if you think you’re completely innocent of the charges against you. This can be dangerous, however, since an attorney understands how the legal process works and can help ensure that your rights are protected. Instead of assuming you don’t need legal representation or that you won’t need it until you’re in court, contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Sharing Information via Emails, Texts, or Social Media
Don’t make the mistake of posting anything about your case online, especially on social media. Police officers check these sites, and the content you post may incriminate you. If, for example, you’re accused of a robbery and post something about your whereabouts on the day of the crime or a photo of an expensive new purchase, this information can be used by law enforcement. Texts and emails can also be accessed and used to build a case against you.
Lying to Your Attorney or Omitting Information
Honesty is definitely the best policy when you’re talking to your attorney. You may be tempted to not tell the entire story in an attempt to make your case look better, or simply because you think certain details aren’t important. You may also decide not to tell the truth. However, your attorney is on your side, and these lies and omissions will hamper their ability to defend you.
Contact us today if you need legal advice or representation. If you’ve been arrested, our attorneys can build the best defense possible on your behalf and help protect your rights.