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What Should I do if I Get Arrested?

Coastal South Law

Updated: Sep 30, 2020

This is a question we hear quite often these days, especially because of what we have been seeing on the news across the county. What does being arrested mean? If you are arrested, then a police officer has probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime. Several scenarios exist in which police officers may arrest you. They could come to your house, pull you over in a vehicle, stop you in public, or seek you out if they have a warrant. Ask the police if you are free to leave. If they say yes, then calmly leave the area. If they say no, then plan for them to arrest you. Sometimes your best defense is going to be knowledge. The knowledge of what to do and what not to do if you get arrested.

What to Do

  • Stay calm.

  • Be respectful.

  • Make sure the police officers are able to see your hands at all times.

  • Invoke your rights. You have certain rights if the police are conducting a custodial interrogation. This means if they are asking you questions and you are not free to leave, then remain silent and ask to speak with your attorney.

  • Make a telephone call. If you know your attorney’s number, call her. Otherwise, call a family member or friend and get your attorney’s number. It is always a good idea to have a few people’s telephone numbers memorized, just in case.

  • Hire an attorney, if you do not already have one on retainer.

  • If injured, seek medical attention right away. Take pictures of any injuries. Keep medical documentation.

  • Post bail. If you are financially unable to post bail and decide to use a bail bondsman, make sure to know the charges against you, as that will be some of the information the bondsman will need to know.

  • If you have to remain in jail, make sure to let the jail medical staff know what medications you require.

  • Show up to court on time. Missing a court appearance could result in a warrant and another criminal charge.

  • Take care of yourself.

What Not to Do

  • Do not make any furtive movements.

  • Do not resist.

  • Do not run.

  • Do not lie. Do not tell them you are someone else.

  • Do not give them any sort of false documentation, such as a fake ID.

  • Do not consent to a search.

  • Do not forget that police are trained to extract incriminating information from you. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

  • Do not post anything on social media. Your social media posts may eventually make an appearance into the evidence record.

  • Do not talk to anyone about your case. You may be tempted to talk to your cell mate or family/friends during jail visits. Phone calls are being recorded, as are in-person visits.

  • Do not violate any court orders, including any conditions of your release. Especially take note of any “no contact” orders or orders of protection. Oftentimes, if the charge is domestic related, some type of no contact will be ordered between you and the victim.

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Have you recently been charged with or arrested for a crime in Southeastern North Carolina? Our experienced criminal defense attorneys are ready to fight for you both inside and outside of the courtroom. You do not have to go through this difficult time alone. Having a tough negotiator and litigator on your side can make all the difference. Pick up the phone today and call Coastal South Law or visit us online at www.coastalsouthlaw.com.


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Telephone: (910) 253-0411

Fax: (910) 613-4033

Coastal South Law

BRUNSWICK COUNTY
3972 Business Hwy 17 East, Unit E
Bolivia, NC, 28422

Coastal South Law

NEW HANOVER COUNTY
414 Chestnut St, Unit 303

Wilmington, NC, 28401

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