An arrest can happen suddenly, and sometimes, you may have little or no warning of the arrest. Worse, you may not fully understand the rights you have when you’re arrested. If you don’t know your rights, it’s easy to make a costly mistake, one that could impact your case and your future.
Because of this, you may need a lawyer on your side. If you’ve been arrested and you need help dealing with the police and other concerns, know your rights and get in touch with a lawyer before you say anything.
Right to Remain Silent
You may have learned about your Miranda rights in school, but what do you really need to know when you’re arrested and read your rights?
Your right to remain silent means you don’t have to answer all the questions the police ask you. Answering these questions may incriminate you, which can be hard to fight in court. You can instead stay silent, protecting your story and limiting the evidence you provide to the police.
Right to an Attorney
When you’re arrested, you’re also given the right to an attorney. Your attorney can help you communicate more effectively with the police, avoiding incriminating answers while providing what’s necessary.
But what if you can’t afford an attorney? You may be worried about the costs that may accrue with a criminal defense lawyer. Here’s the good news—you may have a public defender assigned to your case if you’re unable to pay for a lawyer yourself. While getting a criminal defense lawyer can give you a larger advantage for your case, getting any representation can help you take the right steps after an arrest.
Right to Speak to an Attorney
Once you have an attorney, you’ll want to speak with them about your case. But you may not want the police to overhear your conversation, which may include details or other information that may imply you’re guilty.
Luckily, you do have a right to speak with your lawyer or out-of-court interpreter privately. The police are not allowed to listen to your conversations with a legal professional.
Just remember that the police may be able to listen in to other conversations with other people. Speak with your lawyer about being careful with what you say when communicating with your friends, family, and other parties.
Protect Your Rights with a Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you’re accused of a crime, you may be worried about protecting your rights following an arrest. But knowing your rights after an arrest is only a piece of your defense case. You then need to consider your best defense if your case goes to court.
At The Chetson Firm, we provide defenses for people accused of serious crimes, and we’re here to help you avoid or reduce those charges. If you’ve been accused of a crime, your lawyer is here to help, from the first reading of your rights to the final decision in the courtroom. When you’re ready to talk with a lawyer, give us a call at 919-352-9411 or complete the online contact form below.
