If the police detain you, it is obviously a less-than-ideal situation, but there are things that you can do that can make it even worse. And it is in your best interest to assiduously avoid doing these things. Your behavior now can play a significant role in how your case proceeds, and you certainly do not want additional charges tacked on simply because you lost your cool in the heat of the moment. Even if you are certain that the police are out of bounds in detaining you in the first place, now is not the time to make this point – save the information for your dedicated Killeen criminal defense attorney.
Do – at All Costs – Remain as Calm as You Can
Being arrested is a traumatic experience, but the number one favor you can do yourself is to remain as calm as you can from the outset, which will set the tone for the entire experience. If you find yourself beginning to lose control, focus on your breathing by taking deep, steady breaths and on keeping the encounter as cooperative as possible (even if you are feeling anything but) rather than antagonistic.
Do Be Prepared
As every scout knows, being prepared is the greater part of any challenge. It is not a bad idea to keep the name and number of a reputable criminal defense attorney (who comes with personal recommendations and stellar reviews if possible) in your wallet – in the event of being detained. No one wants to dwell on the possibility of being arrested, but a bit of preplanning can go a long way toward helping to relieve some of the immense pressure if it does come to that.
Do Know Your Legal Rights
If you have ever enjoyed a courtroom drama or two, you know that you have the right to remain silent when being questioned by the police. The best piece of advice we can offer is that you invoke this right immediately after providing the police with your name and other necessary identifying information. All you need to do is let the officer know that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you are requesting an attorney.
The Don'ts
Knowing what to do is only half the battle. It is also important to know what not to do if you are detained by the police, including:
Do not get physical or attempt to fight back. Even if you believe you are being treated unfairly or are being wrongly arrested, it is always in your best interest to acquiesce.
Do not argue with the police. If the police mistreat you or misstep in their detainment of you, it is something you can take up after the fact. Now is the time to remain silent and wait for your dedicated criminal defense attorney.
Reach out to an Experienced Killeen Criminal Defense Attorney Today
Brett Pritchard at the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is an astute criminal defense attorney who takes great pride in helping clients like you achieve favorable case resolutions that support their legal rights. For more information about how we can help you, too, please do not hesitate to contact us online or call us at (254) 781-4222 today.