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Five Things You Should Do When Arrested for a Crime

Published: Nov 10, 2016 in Criminal Defense

Sometimes an arrest comes out of nowhere and you are not prepared. Maybe you are pulled over and arrested for a DWI or the police come to your home with a warrant despite you having no idea you were under investigation. However the arrest comes about, there are certain rules you can follow to make the process go smoothly and set yourself up for a successful outcome.

If you have been arrested for a crime or have questions about the process, you should contact criminal defense lawyer Ned Barnett as soon as possible by calling (713) 222-6767.

When You Have Been Arrested:

  1. You Should Remain Silent.

    There is little you can say to help yourself when you have been arrested for a crime other than “I will not answer questions until I have my lawyer present.” Any other answer can be used against you in the future, no matter how helpful you believe you are being or how innocent you truly are. The police will twist your words to help their cause and can even lie to your during questioning. They are not your friends, and they are not on your side. The police may not like your refusal to answer, but you have every right to remain silent and obtain an attorney.

  2. You Should Cooperate With the Police.

    You can fully cooperate with the police without answering questions. Once you are arrested, the police will take you in for booking. You can remain polite and follow instructions during this process. If they ask you questions, merely repeat that you will not answer questions until you have been able to speak with legal counsel.

  3. You Should Not Argue.

    When you know you are innocent or believe you are being treated unfairly by the police, a part of you will want to rebel against the arrest. You will want to ask why or say that the police have made a mistake. It is best to keep these comments to yourself and not argue with the police or the arrest. Arguing with the police can be seen as resisting arrest, which could make the situation worse and lead to additional criminal charges. Instead, follow police instructions until you are able to obtain a lawyer.

  4. You Should Not Permit any Searches.

    The police may ask if they can search your vehicle, home, or another area where you expect privacy. You should not permit a search. If the police had probable cause to conduct a search without a warrant or to obtain a warrant for a search, they would not be asking you for permission. You do not have to consent to a search.

  5. You Should Call an Attorney Right Away.

    It may sound like you have heard this advice too often, but the importance of an experienced criminal defense lawyer after you have been arrested cannot be understated. A lawyer like Ned Barnett fully understands your rights during a criminal investigation and trial. If you cannot call an attorney directly, you have the right to speak with a family member or friend who can contact a lawyer for you.

A Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help

If you have never been through the Texas criminal justice system before, you may not know what comes next. Ned Barnett will explain the court process, from arraignment to potential sentencing. He will get to know you, your specific situation, and will then create you the best defense possible under the law. Contact the Law Offices of Ned Barnett at (713) 222-6767 to schedule a free consultation.