Do’s and Don’ts After You’re Arrested

absolute_bail_bondsIf you’ve never been arrested, the entire experience can be overwhelming, and a little scary. You will be handcuffed, placed into the back of a police car, read your Miranda rights, and processed before potentially being placed into a cell.

Out of fear, or lack of experience with the justice system, chances are you will follow all the officer’s directions, including incriminating yourself and not seeking the assistance of an attorney or bail bondsman. Don’t allow your fear to cause you to make a mistake, and instead, if you are ever arrested, here are a few do’s and don’ts to remember.

Don’t Bother Telling the Police You Are Innocent

You’re being pulled over, or the police are knocking at your door, and you know that an arrest is imminent. Your first instinct might be to proclaim your innocence and hope that the police believe you and walk away. Unfortunately, for you to be arrested, the police only need an arrest warrant or probable cause.

Basically, probable cause means that the police must have a legitimate reason to place you under arrest. It is not the police officer’s job to find you guilty or innocent. Instead, follow the police officer’s orders and try to remain calm and collected.

Don’t Attempt to Flee the Scene

Whether you are being pulled over by the police or the police are at your home with a warrant, it is never prudent to flee the scene. Running from the police might seem like a feasible choice, but chances are, you will get caught and will wind up in even more trouble.

In Nevada, running from the police, threatening a police officer, or resisting arrest in any way could cost you a huge fine and even jail time. For example, if you were charged with a misdemeanor and you attempt to run from the police, in Nevada, you could spend several months in jail or face a hefty fine. Also, never do anything that will put your safety, or the safety of an officer, in danger.

For instance, if you are pulled over and the police officer is approaching your vehicle, never drive away. In addition to getting into even more trouble for fleeing the scene, you might also accidentally injure the officer.

Do Remain Quiet

If you’ve ever watched a crime drama or movie, the suspect of a crime is always told they can remain quiet. It is your right to not incriminate yourself, so when the police begin to ask you questions, it is imperative that you do not speak. Remember, if you become belligerent or even threaten an officer, you could get into even more trouble.

Instead, when the officer asks you any questions, tell them that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you wish to speak with your attorney. You don’t have to answer any of the officer’s questions, even if they keep asking. If you have an attorney available, that individual will be brought to you in the jail immediately.

Do Be Respectful

Dealing with the police is always stressful, and out of fear or confusion, you might find yourself acting disrespectfully toward the law enforcement officer. Unfortunately, this will only get you into more trouble, so it is critical that you always remain polite and calm. Remember, the police officer is doing their duty and they deserve your respect.

Address them as “sir,” “ma’am,” or “officer,” and wait to be instructed before you act. However, remember that you do not need to answer any of the officer’s questions, so when you address them, remain calm, polite, and respectful.

Don’t Get Worried If You Can’t Afford Bail

Finally, if you are granted bail, and you can’t afford it, don’t assume that you are destined to spend a few days in jail. Instead, learn about your options, including contacting a bail bondsman. This professional specializes in helping individuals afford their bail, so they can leave jail and prepare their case.

Remember, before you can seek the services of a bail bondsman, you must also find a cosigner. In the state of Nevada, you are allowed to make reasonable phone calls if you are arrested, so contact a friend or family member and either ask them to be a cosigner, or if they are not able, contact other relatives who would be willing to help you. It is also the task of this loved one to contact a professional bail bondsman.

From your right to keep quiet to seeking the assistance of a bail bondsman, if you are ever arrested, it is critical to know what you should and shouldn’t do or say. If you have any questions or require the help of a bondsman, contact the professionals at  All Star Bail Bonds.

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