WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M ARRESTED?

So, you were arrested. The question is: Now what should you do? If you have been arrested or a loved one has been arrested recently in Texas, it is important to know what to do to protect your rights. Your future could be at stake! Take this seriously and take the right steps to protect yourself.

What You Need to Know Right Now

First, you need to realize that you have now entered the second phase of a criminal case. This means you will need to make some important choices about bail, pretrial services, and your defense. Whether you have been arrested for a drug crime, DWI, a theft crime, or any other criminal matter, the sooner you talk to a Fort Worth criminal defense attorney, the better. The result of your case could be drastically impacted by the speed with which you are able to consult a defense lawyer.

Take Steps to Protect Your Rights

Here’s what to expect in the aftermath of an arrest in Texas:

1. After an arrest, you will most likely be taken to jail for processing. At the jail, you will be processed—the police will receive information such as your name, birthdate, and so on. Your fingerprint will be taken and may be checked.
2. After you have been processed, you will be either put in the main jail or a holding facility.
3. You will most likely have the option of posting bail, which would allow you to be released. There are different processes involved in setting bail that will vary depending on your circumstance. In most cases this will involve appearing before a magistrate who will inform you of your rights and set the bail amount.
4. There are different forms of bail: A personal bond, which is rare, and a surety bond, which can be paid by posting a cash bond or contacting a bondsman.

What to Do After an Arrest—And What Not to Do

There are several things you should do after an arrest, as well as some that you shouldn’t:

Don’t resist arrest. Anyone can be arrested—it doesn’t mean you did anything wrong. But resisting arrest is illegal and could complicate your case. It could also put you in danger.

Do ask for an attorney immediately. This should be your first move! Remember, it is your constitutional right to have an attorney present.

Don’t answer questions. You have the right to have a lawyer present. Don’t relinquish your right. It could have an impact on your case.

Don’t agree to searches. The constitution protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. If an officer asks to search your property or person, don’t consent. Ask your lawyer first.

The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better. I can help you. Contact the Law Office of A. Oliver Hassibi and speak with me about your case. I can help you protect your rights and your future at a time when it truly counts.