Being placed under arrest can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. However, it’s important to remain calm and remain on your best behavior for the benefit of your case.
Limit What You Disclose on the Phone
Like most states, Massachusetts allows detained individuals to make a phone call from the police station. It’s important to understand that these calls are often recorded. As such, you should limit your topic of conversation to requesting bail or a meeting with an attorney. You should not disclose any details of your case, such as any allegations against you or your retelling of the events.
This applies to all phone calls made behind bars. If you’re kept in jail pending trial, your calls will continue to be recorded. Do not discuss your case.
Do Not Fraternize with the Police Officers
It’s common for people to become chatty when nervous. No matter how friendly your arresting or booking officer is, do not feel as though you can open up to them. Remain polite and cooperative, but do not engage in any small talk. Anything you say could be passed along to the prosecutor and be used against you.
Do Not Fight Police
Resisting arrest or trying to fight law enforcement officers will be used against you and could result in more serious charges.
Do Not Discuss Your Case with Cellmates
It’s tempting to use your case as a way to break the ice with cellmates, but it is unadvisable. Officers could overhear your conversations, or cellmates could try to use your statements as leverage with prosecutors to alleviate their own sentence.
Ask for an Attorney
The sooner our attorneys can arrive on the case, the better. If police call you in for questioning, you have the right to assert that you will not be answering any interrogatory questions until your lawyer is present.
If you or a loved one have been arrested, you need the help of a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Contact Brad Bailey Law to discuss your case today.