What Happens When You Are Arrested

Introduction

Getting arrested can be a daunting experience, and it's crucial to understand what happens during the process. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the typical events that unfold when someone is taken into custody.

1. The Arrest

When the police arrive, they will instruct you to freeze and put your hands up. If you're being arrested for a specific crime, such as stealing donuts, the officer will inform you of the charges against you.

2. Handcuffing

Once you comply, the officer will place you in handcuffs for safety reasons. This is standard procedure to ensure that you do not pose a threat to the officer or to yourself.

3. Reading of Miranda Rights

Following the handcuffing, the officer will read you your Miranda Rights, which typically include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. It’s important to understand that you have these rights, and you are not obligated to speak to the authorities without legal representation.

4. Transport to Police Car

After your rights have been read, you will be placed in a police car for transport to the station. During this ride, you might be tempted to request some music to lighten the mood, perhaps even something from a popular artist, but it’s unlikely the officer will entertain such requests.

5. Arriving at the Station

Once you arrive at the police station, the following procedures will take place:

Photograph: You will have a mugshot taken.
Fingerprinting: Your fingerprints will be recorded.
Personal Property: Any personal items, including potentially sentimental ones like a lucky charm, may be taken and held by the police for the duration of your stay.

6. Background Check

Next, the police will run a background check to see if you have any outstanding warrants. Depending on how busy the station is, this process can take several hours—sometimes up to 8 hours.

7. Making a Phone Call

While you are under arrest, you are usually allowed to make at least one phone call, often mandated by state laws. This call is typically made to a lawyer or a trusted contact, should you need immediate assistance.

8. Court Appearance

Typically, within 72 hours of your arrest, you'll have a court appearance. Here, a judge will determine whether you can make bail or if you will remain in jail awaiting trial. In this scenario, the bail is set at $ 5,000, but this amount can vary depending on various factors.

Keywords

Arrest
Handcuffs
Miranda Rights
Police Car
Mugshot
Fingerprints
Background Check
Phone Call
Court Appearance
Bail

FAQ

What should I do if I'm arrested?
If you're arrested, remain calm, comply with the officer's instructions, and avoid discussing your case until you have an attorney present.

What are my rights when being arrested?
You have the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and protection against self-incrimination as part of your Miranda Rights.

Can I make a phone call after being arrested?
Yes, in many states, you have the right to make at least one phone call to a lawyer or a loved one.

What happens at the police station?
You will have your photograph taken, be fingerprinted, and possibly undergo a search. Your personal belongings will also be taken and stored by the police.

How long does it take to get a court appearance after an arrest?
Typically, you will have a court appearance within 72 hours of your arrest, during which a judge will decide on bail and further proceedings.