WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM ARRESTED?

If the officer makes the decision to place you under arrest he or she usually has the discretion to either issue a citation or take you to the police station for booking into the county/city jail. Some officers will tell you that if you do not cooperate with them that they will take you to jail. This tactic is designed to elicit an admission which the officer can use against you at trial. Do not be intimidated into giving a statement! If you are placed under arrest ask to speak to a lawyer immediately. Now is not the time to mount a defense or make excuses for your behavior. If you are taken to the station you should not tell the police anything except your name and address until you speak to a lawyer. Within a reasonable time after your arrest you will be allowed to call a lawyer, a bail bondsman, a family member or friend. The police are not allowed to monitor your call to an attorney. It is always best to call a trusted family member who will call an attorney and arrange bail for you. If you cannot afford an attorney one will be appointed for you free of charge. At this point the entire force and weight of the government is aligned against you and you need the aid of competent legal counsel. If you find yourself in this situation, feel free to contact attorney Charles M. Rowland II at his after hours number, (937) 776-2671.