Read Our Reviews

What to Do If a Friend or Loved One Is Arrested

The phone rings at 3:00 a.m. You’re instantly alarmed: has there been a death in the family or a devastating medical emergency? When you answer, you find out that it’s something nearly as bad: a family member or friend has been arrested and needs your help. What do you do?
Determine where they are
First, ask where they are being held and by what police agency (i.e. local, state, FBI). Then tell them that you will find an attorney to represent them and not to answer police questions until the attorney arrives.
Ask about the charges
Find out what they have been charged with and when the arrest was made. If they try to tell you what happened, gently cut them off: calls are routinely recorded by law enforcement for later use in a court case. Remind them that they need to tell their side of the story to their attorney.
If a police officer or detective is the one who informs you of the arrest, tell them that you are obtaining a lawyer for your friend or family member and not to question them further.
Call a criminal defense attorney
Many defense attorneys make themselves available day and night. Call immediately. Tell the lawyer about the arrest, providing as much information as possible, and ask him or her to call the detention center to prevent further questioning.
Next steps
Gather funds to cover legal fees and post bail. (Bail for traffic violations and most minor crimes can usually be posted at the station house.)
Be aware that many people will try to give you and your loved one advice during this difficult time. But unless they are licensed attorneys, do not let them influence your decisions. A criminal defense attorney owes a duty of competence, which means that they can be held responsible if they give bad advice, something that lay people can’t. They also offer the protection of attorney-client privilege, so they cannot be called to testify against your friend or family member.
After hearing the relevant details, your lawyer will advise on the best course of action. They have their client’s best interests in mind at all times, and will work to bring about the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, we can help. Please call us today at (843) 626-5480 and let us get to work on your behalf!

The following two tabs change content below.

webteam support

Latest posts by webteam support (see all)