Five Things You Should When Getting Arrested in Massachusetts: Exercising Your Legal Rights
Sometimes, an arrest can happen even if you did not break any law. Indeed, you can be arrested for a crime you did not commit. Facing an arrest can be confusing and nerve-wracking. Whether or not you are guilty of an offense, you have rights you want to preserve and protect. Also, it’s your right to seek legal representation and build a defense strategy to preserve your future. Click this link to find an experienced defense attorney. To ensure you can best exercise your rights, you need to know what these are. If you are arrested, here are things you can do:
Deny Requests to Search
Facing an arrest puts you in a high-stress situation, which can make it easy for you to make mistakes. One of these mistakes is consenting to a search. When the arresting officer wants to search you, your car, or your house, decline this request politely.
Keep Silent
Some officers may try to be friendly to get you to say something they can use against you. Their charm may make you feel a sense of security, but this is not the case. During an arrest, no one can be your friend. Whatever you will say can be used against you. So, avoid small talks with the arresting officer.
Do Not Resist Arrest
No matter your position to the charges you are facing, you should not fight the arresting officer. Otherwise, you can get injuries and be at risk of having more charges. Additionally, you may not be able to escape no matter how you try. Whether you think the arrest is unlawful or not, the court will determine what’s true. So, just stay put and wait for your chance to contact an attorney.
Avoid Talking About Your Charges on the Phone
After an arrest in Massachusetts, you will be allowed to make a phone call. But this call is often recorded, so do not talk about the charges on the phone. Keep this call short and request to arrange a meeting with a lawyer.
Hire a Defense Lawyer
It is your right not to say anything to the police during and after an arrest. You should not answer any questions from them without a lawyer. When you choose a lawyer, ensure they specialize in criminal defense. The right attorney will work to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation. They will advise you against doing something that can make your situation worse.
