Think you could end up arrested? Read this post

Getting arrested can be one of the scariest times of your life- whether you’re guilty of a crime or now. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of what they should do if this happens, and they end up making life more difficult for themselves.

Here are some top tips if you’re ever arrested:

Don’t profess your innocence

No one wants to be arrested, and you may instinctively think that you can ‘get out of it’ by telling everyone you come across that you’re innocent. However, your arresting officer doesn’t want to hear it. It’s up to a jury or judge to let you go in the event that you were arrested without cause, and you’re more likely to say something that can be used against you later.

Don’t run

This may seem obvious, but running, or resisting arrest in any way is a pretty bad idea. Resisting arrest can simply lead to you getting hurt- particularly if you make it difficult for the cops by running. They’re going to wonder why you’re running, and may even assume you have a weapon on you. Remember, if you’re under arrest, your best bet is to go quietly and work on a solution afterward.

Call a lawyer

Calling a lawyer from Prime criminal lawyers is the smartest thing you can do. It doesn’t make you look any ‘guiltier’ to want criminal representation, and you’re entitled to speak with a lawyer anyway. Invoking your rights is simply the smart way to go- including the right to stay silent, and the right to speak with a lawyer. Take advantage of those rights.

Listen carefully

If the police ask permission to search you, your car, or your home, it means they need to ask you for permission- and they don’t have a warrant. In this case, you have every right to respectfully, and politely, decline. The same is true if the police show up at your house and invite you to ‘step outside.’ Usually, they’ll need to have a warrant that allows them to go into your home in order to arrest you. However if you step outside with them, that problem is solved. Instead, ask if they have a warrant to arrest you in your home, and let them know that you’re comfortable standing inside your home.

This is a smart thing to consider in the event that the police show up on a Friday night- when the law offices and courts are closed. Instead, call an attorney and get advice.