Getting arrested is, without a doubt, a stressful experience. During the arrest, it is not uncommon for the suspect to protest their innocence, ask questions or, worse still, attempt to rest an arrest.
However, it is important to understand that your actions during and after the arrest can have grievous consequences for your case. While it is normal to feel the urge to react with your emotions rather than logic, it is important that you avoid mistakes that can hurt your case.
Here are two mistakes you need to steer clear of while under arrest.
Resisting arrest
Attempting to stop the law enforcement officer from executing a lawful arrest, or misbehaving while in custody can only complicate matters for you. In so doing, you may face additional charges such as assaulting the police with intent to resist arrest or obstructing a lawful arrest. These charges will stand whether you are found guilty of the initial crime for which you were arrested or not. If you believe your rights were violated during the arrest, consider bringing the matter up with your legal counsel.
Trying to explain yourself out of trouble
Most often, the police will have probable cause for your arrest. Meaning, the police will be basing their arrest on the information they believe to be correct. A common mistake you can make is trying to explain the situation with the hope that this will make them realize they are making a mistake. When you talk to the police, they might record and use this against you in court. The right thing to do would be to keep quiet and call your lawyer.
With your freedom and future at stake during your arrest, it is important to note that what you do immediately following your arrest can greatly impact the outcome of your case.