Being arrested can be a scary. You might not know what to do or what your rights are. Police will question you and might try to get you to confess. The way you handle things can affect how your case turns out.
If you are arrested in Boulder, Colorado, you need to know how the legal procedure works. The city has strict law enforcement policies, and even minor offenses can have serious consequences. To stay out of trouble with the law, you need to know what your rights are. A Boulder defense lawyer can help you get through the legal system and fight for your rights. So, when you get arrested on allegations of committing a crime, here’s what you should do.
Keep Calm and Cooperate
- Even if you think you are innocent, do not fight the police or resist arrest.
- Don’t get into an argument with the police; be polite.
- Follow the simple instructions, but don’t talk to anyone without a lawyer present.
If you resist arrest, you could face more charges. If you stay calm, the situation will not get worse. Cooperating doesn’t mean you are giving up your rights.
Use Your Right to Remain Silent
- Anything you say can be used against you in court.
- You don’t have to answer any questions if your lawyer isn’t there.
- Clearly state, “I’m invoking my right to remain silent.”
Speaking out without a lawyer can hurt your case. People can twist or misunderstand even the most casual things you say and use them against you. Until you get a lawyer, the best thing you can do is stay quiet.
Request a Lawyer Immediately
- Ask for a lawyer immediately.
- Do not talk about your case with anyone other than your lawyer.
- The court will give you a lawyer if you can’t pay for one.
Do not think that getting a lawyer makes you look guilty. Your defense lawyer will help you through the court process. They will build a strong case for you and make sure that your rights are respected.
Do Not Give Consent to Searches
- The police may ask to search your house, car, or belongings that are in it.
- You can say no unless they have a warrant.
- A polite way to say this is “I do not consent to a search.”
Most of the time, police can’t conduct a search without a warrant. They might not be able to use the evidence they find in court if they search without permission.
Follow Court Orders and Show Up for all Hearings
- If you miss a court date, you could get into more legal problems.
- Do what your conditions of release say.
- You should dress properly and be polite in court.
If you don’t show up to court, you could get a warrant for your arrest. It might help if you are polite and responsible. Your behavior will also be considered by the judge.
Collect Evidence and Witness Information
- If you can, write down everything you remember about the arrest.
- Get the contact information of people who saw what happened and can support your case.
- Keep any documents, pictures, or messages that could help your case.
