While an arrest envisions a police officer cuffing the suspects and placing them in the back seat of a police car, arrests trigger various legal effects, including specific and detailed police responsibilities. Every individual arrested in the US and questioned by law enforcement must be informed of their legal rights. According to an Okaloosa County Criminal Defence Attorney, understanding your legal rights and what to anticipate if you’re detained or arrested can help you get a favorable outcome in your case.
Tips to Protect Your Legal Rights After an Arrest
To arrest someone is to restrain or take them into custody to charge them with a crime. If you are arrested, you have legal rights to protect yourself, whether innocent or guilty.
Don’t Consent to Question Without Having a Lawyer By Your Side
Police officers can stop you on the streets or bang on your front door to ask you questions. However, you are free to refuse to answer their questions. If an officer stops or detains you or starts searching you without a reasonable doubt, they break the law of unreasonable searches. To be detained without cause can lead to a case of false arrest.
Having your freedom and future in jeopardy may have you upset and worried, so the officer could try a friendly approach, asking for your cooperation. Try to remain silent, as you don’t want to say something in error and self-defense and risk incriminating yourself. You have the right to talk with your chosen legal help, so contact your criminal defense attorney and stay as calm as possible.
Do Not Argue, Resist Your Arrest or Run
Arguing with police officers or resisting arrest could bring additional charges, and based on the circumstances, you may be putting yourself in danger. You can answer any questions about your identity, but it’s best not to engage in conversations about what happened. In all cases, silence is critical, so please remember that anything you say might be used against you in court.
Ask Why You are Being Arrested
When you are detained or arrested, you have the right to be told why you were detained or arrested. You also have a right to be free from a search of your workplace, vehicle, or your body without a signed warrant. While law enforcement could try to intimidate you and make you believe they can seize anything they want when you are arrested, it’s not the case. However, it’s indicated not to resist a search with force. If the search proves illegal, the court will address that at the right time. Separately, an inventory of your belongings may be taken during your detention. You should be given a receipt for the personal items that will be held for you.
You Cannot be Forced to Accept a Lie Detector Test
Before asking or agreeing to take such a test, you should talk to your lawyer. Please consider that lie detectors are not always accurate and may be allowed in rare situations. Ultimately, do not sign any papers. Remember that it’s improper for investigators or police officers to promise you a lighter sentence, or something else, in exchange for a confession. No law enforcement official may use any threats or force against you. You must report the violations to the judge and your lawyer if that happens.
