Facing an arrest can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. In such a crucial moment, it’s vital to remain composed and take the right steps to protect your rights and future. Unfortunately, amidst the stress and confusion, people often make critical mistakes that can significantly impact their case and legal standing. To help navigate this challenging situation, let’s explore some common mistakes to avoid after an arrest.
- Panicking and Reacting Emotionally
It’s natural to feel scared and anxious after an arrest, but panicking and reacting emotionally can worsen the situation. Try to remain calm and composed, as any aggressive behavior or resistance could lead to additional charges.
- Resisting Arrest
Under any circumstances, do not resist arrest. You’ll have an opportunity to prove your innocence later on, and fighting the police or trying to flee the scene will only escalate the situation and lend credence to the theory that you are guilty.
- Talking to the Police Without Legal Representation
One of the most crucial mistakes people make is speaking to the police without consulting a lawyer first. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s essential to exercise your right to remain silent and wait for legal representation.
- Neglecting to Understand Your Rights
Understanding your rights is fundamental when dealing with law enforcement. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your Miranda rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Knowing your rights empowers you to make informed decisions during interactions with the police.
- Discussing the Case on Social Media
In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to share every detail of our lives on social media. However, discussing your arrest or case on social media platforms can be detrimental. Anything you post online, just like anything you say, can be used as evidence against you, so it’s best to refrain from discussing your legal matters online.
- Failing to Document the Arrest
After an arrest, it’s essential to document everything related to the incident, including the names of the arresting officers, the time and location of the arrest, and any witnesses present. This information can be valuable later on when building your defense.
- Missing Court Dates or Deadlines
Missing court dates or failing to meet deadlines set by the court can have serious consequences, including warrants for your arrest or the loss of certain rights. Make sure to stay organized and keep track of all court dates and deadlines associated with your case.
- Ignoring Legal Advice
If you’ve hired a lawyer to represent you, it’s crucial to heed their advice and guidance. Your lawyer is there to protect your interests and navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf. Ignoring their advice can compromise your case and put you at a disadvantage.
- Failing to Make Bail
If you are offered bail, make every effort to secure it so you are released while you await your trial. Contact a bail bond company, or have your lawyer do it.
- Engaging in Destructive Behavior
Coping with the stress of an arrest by engaging in destructive behavior, such as substance abuse or lashing out at loved ones, will only exacerbate the situation. Instead, focus on healthy coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from friends and family or practicing self-care activities.
- Assuming Guilt Without Due Process
Being arrested does not equate to guilt. Everyone is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. Avoid assuming guilt or making self-incriminating statements before your case has been thoroughly examined and adjudicated.
- Representing Yourself in Court
While you do have the right to represent yourself in court, most people choose not to because they just don’t know enough to do so competently. For the best possible outcome, hire a criminal defense attorney with experience in cases similar to yours.
- Being Disrespectful in Court
Don’t sabotage your case by being rude or plain discourteous to the judge. You can get charged with contempt if you display hostility. Look presentable and be on your best behavior when you’re in front of a judge. The judge is the hand that feeds: don’t bite it!
- Contacting Your Accuser
Doing so can be used against you and earn you a restraining order and/or additional charges. You should never call or visit your accuser, because it could be seen as an attempt to intimidate the plaintiff.
- Getting Arrested Again
It’s not just evidence of a lapse of judgment, it’s an opportunity to get a more severe conviction.
- Failing to Seek Support
Dealing with an arrest can be emotionally taxing, and you don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support groups for emotional support and guidance during this challenging time.
The Bottom Line
Navigating the aftermath of an arrest requires careful consideration and strategic decision-making. By avoiding these common mistakes and seeking the necessary support and guidance, you can protect your rights and work towards a favorable outcome in your case. Remember, staying informed and staying calm are your most powerful allies in times of legal uncertainty.
About Affordabail
Affordabail is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Affordabail Bail Bonds has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Affordabail better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
