Getting arrested for any crime can be extremely scary. Once you realize you are being arrested, you may lash out or do things you normally wouldn’t out of fear.
However, whether you believe you did anything wrong or not, you must understand that you are innocent until proven guilty. This can be difficult to remember when you’re being put in the back of a police car in handcuffs, but it will be crucial that you avoid doing anything that can make the situation worse.
To begin with, try to stay calm. This can be enormously challenging, especially if you feel you are being wrongfully arrested or if the crime for which you are being arrested is particularly serious or embarrassing, like solicitation or prostitution. But generally speaking, fighting or verbally abusing the officers arresting you can only make the situation more charged and contentious.
You should also remember your right to remain silent. Once police have read you your Miranda rights, you don’t have to answer any of their questions. You may feel like you just want to answer all their questions to clear up any confusion, but what you say can be taken out of context or misunderstood. These statements can then be used against you in court, which could damage your defense.
Finally, you have the right to consult an attorney if you are arrested. Having a legal representative by your side when dealing with law enforcement agents and prosecutors can help you protect yourself from the tactics they often use to try and secure a conviction.
Even if you made some bad choices when being arrested, you still have the right to speak with an attorney. Not only can an attorney discuss your options regarding the charges you may be facing, but he or she can also work to mitigate any additional penalties that may have resulted from your arrest.
The attorneys at our firm are prepared to help people who have been arrested for serious crimes in and around Orlando. For more information on our skills and background, please visit our website.