As any reliable criminal defense attorney will attest, how someone responds when they're arrested can have a direct impact on the charges they're facing and, ultimately, their legal case. Knowing how to conduct oneself, as well as some precautionary steps to take, will ensure that one is prepared and protected during an arrest. Here are some recommendations for how to respond if you're arrested. 

What You Should Do if You’re Arrested

1. Remain Silent

Miranda Rights safeguard a criminal suspect from incriminating themselves and others in the immediate wake of an arrest. Once you've been read your rights, politely decline to talk until you've spoken to a criminal defense attorney. You only need to give law enforcement your name and license. By staying quiet, you’re protecting yourself from further charges and you’re taking proactive steps to strengthen your legal defense.

2. Be Civil

Even if the police are behaving disrespectfully, maintain civility at all times during an arrest. If you do something or say something that a cop thinks is inappropriate or threatening, they could add further charges like resisting an arrest. As difficult as it may be, keeping calm and being polite is essential.

3. Contact an Attorney When You Can

As soon as you are permitted to make a phone call, you should contact a criminal defense attorney. The criminal justice system and its various processes and procedures are already in motion when you arrive at the station, so it's best to have a lawyer with you as soon as possible. Once you explain your situation to the attorney, they can advise you on how to proceed.

Following these tips will make sure you aren't caught off-guard during an arrest. When it comes time to hire a criminal defense attorney, trust The Law Offices of Conti, Levy and Salerno, LLC., located in Litchfield County, CT. They have 75 years of combined experience protecting their clients in criminal law cases. Call (860) 482-4451 to schedule a free consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.