1. Stay silent. Really.
It's your most important right and the easiest to lose. Anything you say — even if you think it helps — can be used against you. Don't explain, don't argue, don't try to convince anyone of your innocence on the street or at the station.
Say these words and nothing more: “I want to remain silent and I want to speak with a lawyer.” From that point on, don't answer questions about the case until you have one.
2. Don't consent to searches
Police may ask to search your car, your phone, or your home. You can respectfully decline: “I do not consent to the search.” If they have a warrant, don't resist — but make it clear you did not give consent. That difference can be decisive later for excluding evidence.
3. What happens in the first 48 hours
Arrest and booking
You're taken to jail, searched, and processed. This is where staying silent matters most.
First appearance (24 hours)
Within a day you see a judge who informs you of the charges and sets bond. Having a lawyer at this point can affect your freedom.
Release or detention
You're released on bond or held while the case moves forward. The sooner your lawyer steps in, the better your options.
4. Don't talk about your case with anyone
Calls from jail are recorded. Don't discuss your case by phone, don't post anything on social media, and don't contact the alleged victim or witnesses. All it does is give the prosecution ammunition.
5. If you're not a citizen
An arrest can carry serious immigration consequences — even before a conviction. It's essential that your lawyer think about your status from day one, because a decision in the criminal case can affect your ability to stay in the country.
6. Call a lawyer as soon as possible
Don't wait for the first hearing or to “see what happens.” The sooner I step in, the more I can do: protect your rights, talk to the prosecutors, and start building your defense. The first consultation is free, and I handle it in your language.
Frequently asked questions
A family member was arrested. What do I do first?
Call me as soon as possible with the full name and, if you have it, the case number or place of detention. In the meantime, tell your family member to stay silent and not discuss the case by phone, because those calls are recorded.
Can I refuse to let them search my phone or my car?
Yes. You can respectfully refuse consent. If police have a warrant they can search anyway, but your refusal is on the record and can be important for excluding evidence later.
Should I give my side to clear everything up?
Not without a lawyer. The idea of clearing it all up almost always ends up hurting you. Stay silent and let your lawyer speak for you.
I’m undocumented. Is it better to stay quiet?
Yes. Stay silent about your case and your status, and get a lawyer who considers the immigration consequences from the start. A bad early decision can affect your ability to stay in the country.