Being arrested, as one would guess, is no fun! We don’t like to talk about being arrested, but unpleasant things do happen. People meet with unpleasant occurrences all the time, and in the rare case that you do get arrested, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Knowing the clear steps to take when you have been arrested can help you feel prepared for the incident and take the required steps in a calm and collected manner. While it’s important to be educated about such scenarios, it is also important to have a criminal defense lawyer on your phone. If you don’t have one yet, click here for criminal defense lawyer Phoenix. Keep in mind that any words you make or acts you take after being arrested in Phoenix after breaking the law can be used against you in a subsequent court case. They may also affect whether or not you are found guilty. So be considerate of the arresting officer, comply with his instructions, maintain your composure, and refrain from speaking about what precipitated the arrest. Now let’s read on to know what to do after being arrested in Phoenix.
Know Your Rights: So you have been arrested. Now what? Well, before you get arrested, expect the officer in question to read you your Miranda rights, which are essentially the right to silence and the right to be represented by counsel before you are placed under arrest. It is, therefore, better not to provide the arresting officer with any explanations or information because these could be used as evidence of you. Your answers might be concealed by the court if you were not given a Miranda warning before being questioned.
Miranda Rights Include:
- The right to be silent,
- Anything that you do say can be used against you later in court,
- You have the right to have a lawyer,
- You have the right to have a lawyer appointed to you if you cannot afford one.
Be Aware Of The Process: Numerous events that may occur after your arrest may have an impact on your conviction. It is crucial that you understand the procedure and hire the best attorney possible to represent you in court, regardless of whether you are accused of a misdemeanor or a crime. An officer will transport you to a detention facility once you’ve been escorted to the police station. You will be given a chance to speak with a lawyer, let a relative or friend know you’ve been detained, and have your belongings removed and stored by some other officer. This will enable your family to secure legal counsel for you and plan for costs associated with your arrests, such as court costs and bail bonds. You will then be arraigned within 24 hours of your arrest.
All About Arraignment: The first official court appearance is an arraignment. You will go before a judge who will provide you with the allegations against you, go over your rights with you, determine whether there is probable cause, accept your plea of guilty or not guilty, and set the terms of your release in line with the law. You may be released on your own recognizance or after paying bail. The judge will establish bail based on the seriousness of the offense and your criminal history, among other considerations.
Know What Happens Next: A second pre-trial hearing date is set following the arraignment. Prior to a potential trial, the State, as well as the Defense Attorney, will exchange information during this hearing. The prosecutor will give the police reports to your criminal defense attorney. Usually, the prosecutor will make a “plea offer” to the criminal defense lawyer. The criminal defense attorney should speak with witnesses in between hearings, figure out whether any legal moves can be made, and bargain for a better “plea.” With the help of your lawyer, you pick the direction of the case. A “plea agreement” or trial may be used in the case.
Whether it is an accident, an illness, a fight, or an arrest, there are certain scenarios in life that you don’t wish on yourself ever, but it’s best to be prepared for them if and when they do occur! Having a lawyer on your speed dial can be incredibly helpful in more cases than one and can get you out of some sticky scenarios. It’s crucial what you do next after being detained. By speaking or acting in the wrong way, you may set yourself up for future challenges that may be challenging to overcome. You must begin defending yourself right away, therefore it is critical that you learn what to do because you are arrested. An attorney will be aware of your rights and work to safeguard them at all times.