California Criminal Defense Attorneys Discuss What To Do If You Are Arrested
Being arrested can be a very scary experience, mostly because of fear of the unknown – you don’t know what is going to happen to you, and you feel like you have no control over what is happening. The things you say or do – and the things you don’t say or do – in the hours immediately following your arrest can have a huge impact on your lawyer’s ability to help you obtain a successful outcome in your case. The Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Sef Krell are here to make sure you know how to protect yourself in the event you are ever arrested.
Be cooperative, but don’t waive your rights
Although the general rule is that the police need a warrant or probable cause to conduct a search, there are many exceptions to this general rule. One of these exceptions is a search incident to a lawful arrest. This search is limited to a search of the person arrested and the area in the immediate reach or vicinity of the person, so that the person is not able to get hold of a weapon, make an escape, or destroy or hide evidence.
If the police are conducting such a search, you do not want to try to obstruct them or offer resistance. However, this does not mean you should give your consent to any search. If the police ask your permission to search your car, your home, or any of your belongings, you are within your rights to withhold consent. Even if you have nothing to hide, you never know what the police might turn up that they can conceivably use against you. Your rights are there for your benefit; use them.
Don’t talk to anyone until you have talked to an attorney
If the police or prosecutors try to ask you questions about your arrest, politely but firmly refuse to answer any questions until you have spoken with your lawyer. They may try to get you to talk several times before your lawyer arrives, but stay firm. In addition, be careful about what you say to anyone over the phone, in a holding cell, or anywhere else while in custody. You never know who may be listening or who may be willing to sell information to the police.
You may think that one of your first calls should be to a bail bond company to get you out of jail as soon as possible. This is not always the wisest approach. Your attorney may be able to have you released without you having to post any bail, and if not, you can often get a better rate on your bond after you have secured a lawyer.
Get Help with Your Arrest from an Experienced California Criminal Law Attorney
Talking to an attorney as soon as possible after your arrest really is the best way to protect and preserve your rights and put yourself in the best possible position to achieve a positive outcome with your arrest. Los Angeles attorney Sef Krell has been representing people charged with offenses in federal, state and juvenile court in Southern California for over 15 years. If you or a loved one has been arrested, contact the Law Offices of Sef Krell in Encino for immediate assistance.