Being arrested can be a highly-stressful ordeal. Your thoughts will be swirling about what happens next, how such detainment could affect your work and home life, and what the future might hold. Thankfully, there are methods by which you can reduce the impact and concern that comes along with being arrested.
First and foremost, it’s important to remain calm and polite. Your actions could affect the immediate response from law enforcement, and might also become relevant when you appear in court. There are also other considerations to make your arrest and following steps in the process run as smoothly as possible. That includes reaching out to reliable attorneys in Daytona Beach, Florida with a proven track record of success.
1) Know Your Rights
As mentioned, it can be difficult to keep a level head during the chaos that often surrounds an arrest. However, knowing your rights is essential to protecting yourself both at the time of arrest and in the future.
For instance, you may be aware of your right to remain silent. As heard in countless television programs and movies, “anything you say can and will be used against you.” This is, in fact, part of your Miranda Rights that law enforcement are required to inform you about.
Keep in mind that courtesy and respect should be exercised at all times while in the custody of law enforcement. You have the legal right to not speak with law enforcement. Also, if you decide to speak with the police and answer their questions, you also have the right for an attorney to be present during any remarks you make.
2) Secure Legal Representation
Each moment you spend in custody without a skilled and qualified attorney acting on your behalf could be detrimental to your case and future. That’s why it’s essential to immediately contact a dynamic Daytona Beach criminal attorney who can offer guidance and advocacy.
Having a trusted and dependable lawyer on your side will also prevent the possibility of agreeing to unrealistic or potentially harmful terms and propositions made by law enforcement or prosecuting attorneys.
You should also be fully aware of and understand your charges. For instance, misdemeanors are punishable by anything from fines to probation to jail time, while felonies can come with extended jail terms or even prison sentences. In addition, you might lose certain rights if convicted on a felony charge.
3) Avoid Offering Details of Your Arrest to Loved Ones
You might be fortunate to have friends and family members with whom you’re very close. This is certainly an admirable and beneficial state of affairs to be in. However, it’s best not to disclose details of your arrest that could result in legal complication or delay down the line.
Instead, strive to keep conversations regarding your arrest between you and your attorney. In addition, remember to be completely honest in discussions with your Daytona Beach lawyers. Even if you have information you feel might work against you, it’s integral to maintain full transparency with your attorney.
4) Keep in Close Contact with Your Attorney
In fact, any information you can provide to your Daytona criminal lawyer could actually be helpful to reducing or eliminating potential penalties resulting from your arrest charges. That’s why it’s best to write down or immediately inform your attorney of any details that might be relevant to your case. If possible, provide potential witnesses or advocates who can vouch for your integrity.
For more than 35 years, our firm has assisted countless Central Florida residents just like you with a variety of legal needs. In addition to criminal defense, we also handle personal injury and wrongful death, business and corporate law, divorce and family law, and more. That diversification, attention to detail, and outstanding client advocacy has earned us a solid reputation as premier Volusia County attorneys. If you or a loved one has recently been arrested in Florida, contact us today to learn more about your rights, and the best next steps to take.
