When you have been placed under arrest, one of the first things you should do is consult with an NJ Criminal Defense Attorney. However, you can also take other steps to ensure that your rights are protected.
It's important to stay calm when you're being placed under arrest. The worst thing that you could do is panic and try to run away from the scene. Do not resist arrest.
If you are asked your name and your date of birth, provide this information. You may also be asked your Social Security number. Give them this, too. But remember, you are under no obligation to provide authorities any more information than this.
The Fifth Amendment provides Americans the right to remain silent. Many times, NJ criminal defense attorneys notice that people panic when they are placed under arrest and begin talking to the police in the hopes that the cops will let them go. Nothing of that sort will happen. Instead, you can expect your words to be repeated back to you by a police officer standing on the witness stand in court. Remember, “Everything you say can and will be used against you” is 100-percent true.
Do not cave in to pressure tactics from the police. Police officers will be aware of your rights, but will try to get vital information from you by promising to go easy on you if you just talk to them. It's important to remain silent.
Know that once you have made it clear that you won't speak to a lawyer, the questioning should stop.
Don't threaten the police officers. Know that you have a right to make a phone call. Also, note that this phone call could possibly be under electronic surveillance.
Most importantly, speak to an experienced NJ criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible. An attorney will help you understand the charges that have been filed against you and will develop the best possible strategy for you. This could involve getting the charges reduced, negotiating a plea deal or fighting the charges in court.
