The decisions you make within the first 24 to 48 hours of being arrested can have a lasting impact on your future. However, most people in your situation are overwhelmed, anxious and unsure about what to do next. Use this guide to make rational, responsible decisions.
Stay Calm and Don’t Make the Situation Worse
An arrest is stressful, but do your best to stay calm and quiet. Remember, preventing self-incrimination is a constitutional right. Don’t argue with officers, resist arrest or try to explain yourself on the spot. Anything you say or do in the heat of the moment can work against you later. Even if you believe the arrest is a mistake, now is not the time to fight it. That comes later – with a customized legal strategy.
Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
You have the right to remain silent – and you should use it. Politely but clearly say, “I would like to speak with my attorney.” After that, stop answering questions. Do not try to explain, justify or talk your way out of the situation. Many people unintentionally undermine their cases by speaking too soon.
Understand What Happens Next
After an arrest in California, you will typically go through several stages.
- Booking: Your personal information, fingerprints, and photograph are recorded.
- Holding or release: The legal system may release you with a citation or hold you in custody, depending on the charges.
- Bail: In some cases, you may need to post bail before law enforcement officers will release you.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance is the formal presentation of the charges against you.
Do Not Discuss Your Case With Anyone
Do not talk about your arrest or the circumstances surrounding it with anybody other than your attorney. That includes your family and friends. Jails often record phone calls, and statements you thought you made casually can pop up in court later.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
Procrastinating after an arrest can limit your options and allow mistakes to compound. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney, the more control you’ll have over the outcome of your case.
Early intervention allows your lawyer to:
- Protect you from making damaging statements
- Communicate with law enforcement officials on your behalf
- Begin building your defense immediately
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Potentially reduce or prevent charges
Why Choose the Law Firm of Salvatore Ciulla?
After your arrest, you need representation from a strategic advocate who knows how to act fast and protect your future. Sal Ciulla has decades of experience handling serious criminal cases, from burglaries to drug crimes. He understands how prosecutors build cases and how to intervene early to protect your rights.
Our firm will step in immediately to answer your questions, develop a proactive defense strategy and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us immediately to set up a confidential consultation.
