Movies are a poor example of what an arrest looks and feels like to the person being detained. It isn’t easy to imagine what it’s like to be arrested unless you have experienced or witnessed it first-hand. But in the case that it could happen to you, it is wise to know how to behave in accordance with the law. The stress, fear, and anxiety that comes along with being placed under arrest can be overwhelming, but one wrong move or impulsive decision can tack on additional criminal charges that come with harsher penalties, like jail time and fines. Continue reading to learn how you should handle being arrested if it ever happens to you.

What to Do:

In the case that a law enforcement officers notifies you that you are being placed under arrest, it is vital to your future and freedom to remain calm and make good decisions. Here’s how to do that:

DO remain calm and stay where you are. If you are in a car, remain seated with your hands on the wheel or dashboard, unless the officer instructs you otherwise. If you are not in a car, simply remain in the position you were in, whether sitting or standing, unless the officer instructs you otherwise.

DO allow law enforcement officers to handcuff you and place you in their police vehicle. The handcuffs will be very tight, as they are designed that way for a reason, so don’t assume they are put on wrong. If you are cooperative and calm, the officer may allow you to be handcuffed from the front for a more comfortable position.

DO be polite and cooperative with all law enforcement and jail staff. Whatever they ask of you, be respectful. The more cooperative you are, the easier the entire process will be. Whether you think so or not, they want you out of there as much as you do, and they are just doing their best to make that happen. By remaining courteous and obedient, you gain trust and respect, which may get you more jail privileges for the time you are there. Keep in mind, you can be in jail for as little as one hour, to as long as 24, depending on traffic and cooperation.

DO call a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are given an opportunity to use a phone. They can work with you over the phone to arrange a bail and get you released you from jail. Once you are out of jail, you can start working on your case with your lawyer. The sooner you contact your lawyer, to faster they can begin building your defense.

What NOT to Do:

DON’T flee. Never try to run away from police, or attempt to flee before being placed under arrest. If you are in a car, do not try and drive away. This is a huge no-no since it leads to more serious charges, harsher penalties, and jail time. It is never worth the trouble of running because they will eventually find you, and then you are in even more trouble than what you were originally.

DON’T be argumentative and disrespectful to law enforcement. Never talk back to police officers or argue with them in any way. Do not try to test them, bother them, talk over them, or persuade them. This will only get you in more trouble, and extend the amount of time the entire process of being arrested, processed, and bailed out of jail, takes.

DON’T be disobedient and difficult with police and jail staff. You should never disobey law enforcement when they are telling you what to do. DO not disagree with them or complain about anything. You are under their care and custody, and the best way to get out is to respect and accept the process.

DON’T wait for your court date in jail if you don’t have to. Do not miss the opportunity to get out of jail with the help of a licensed bail bondsmen. You could potentially wait weeks or months in jail before a judge can see your case. Never wait in jail when you can just call your lawyer and post bail. This is also beneficial because you get to await your court date from the comfort of your home and you don’t have to miss work.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to learn your rights following an arrest in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our criminal defense law firm will stop at nothing to obtain a more favorable outcome to your criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust.