3 Things You Need To Know If You Are Arrested
Being arrested can be a scary experience. Whether you are guilty or innocent, you might be worried about your future. Many people are arrested and don't understand what they need to do to protect themselves. Here are a couple things you need to understand to ensure that you are protected.
1. You Can Be Arrested Without Being Charged With A Crime
Some people mistakenly think that when they are arrested they are charged with a crime. This is not the case. In order to arrest someone the police just need to have probable cause. This means that they just need to suspect that you did something. Then after you have been arrested they have a short amount of time that they can hold you until they actually charge you with a crime. If they cannot collect enough evidence in that time you go free.
The reason it is important to know this is that you don't want to say anything to the police about your situation. The best thing to do is remain quiet. Even if you are innocent, saying too much might give the police more reason to charge you.
2. You Will Have To Plea If Charged
If you are charged with a crime, then your arraignment will be shortly after. This is where you appear before the judge and make your plea. You can either plead guilty or not guilty. This plea is very important. If you plead guilty the judge will give you a sentence immediately. They will decide if you need to serve jail time, if you should be fined, give a warning, and so forth.
If you plead not guilty then you will have to go through a trial. At any point in the process you can take a settlement or you can go all the way to trial. Also, know that you could get out on bail if you can post it, and depending on the conditions surrounding your crime.
3. Call A Lawyer
Right after you have been arrested you should contact an attorney. Don't wait until after you arraignment to talk to a lawyer. A criminal defense lawyer knows the ins and outs of the court. They can help you know how you should plea, get your sentence decreased, and help to protect you in the case that you are innocent. One of the most important things you will do in those first few moments of being arrested is call a lawyer!
These are just a couple things you should do to protect yourself.
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