Being arrested for a criminal offense can be a frightening and frustrating experience, no matter if it is your first time or your fourth. Due to the overwhelming nature of the situation, it can be difficult to act properly in a strategic manner that will avoid further incrimination. While each case has its own unique set of circumstances, there are several things you can do that can help avoid making a bad situation even worse.
The following are four helpful tips to follow if you are placed under arrest:
- Remain silent. According to the first section of your Miranda rights, you have constitutional right to remain silent. Politely inform the arresting officer that you would like to use your right to remain silent. Even if you are innocent, talking to law enforcement often will not benefit you.
- Be calm. During your arrest, police will closely observe your behavior. They will keep tabs of any indication of nervousness or strange behavior, which can be used against you in court.
- Ask for a lawyer. Do not speak to the police without the advice of an attorney. As soon as you ask for a lawyer, law enforcement cannot interrogate you without an attorney present.
- Refuse consent to any searches. Whether you are arrested at your home or in your car, law enforcement may ask for consent to search your property. You do not have to consent to any searches. Remember, anything on your person will be searched if you a brought to jail.
If you were arrested for a criminal offense in Maryland, contact a Salisbury criminal defense attorney at William R. Hall, P.A. for a free consultation today.