The arrest of a loved one can be a traumatic time for you, your loved one, and any family members who are present when it happens. In this situation, it’s more important than ever to remain calm and avoid getting yourself in trouble as well. At Davis, Ermis and Roberts, LLC, we want to make sure every person knows their rights under the law. Even though your loved one was taken into custody, they still have rights.
Step 1: Stay Calm
This can be the most difficult step, especially if you believe your loved one is innocent. Now is not the time to interfere with the arrest or argue with the police. Calmly and politely ask which jail your loved one is being taken to and what they are being charged with. Remind them that they have the right to have an attorney present during questioning. If the police won’t tell you where they are taking your loved one, you can contact an attorney or do an online inmate search in the city or county where they were arrested.
Step 2: Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
You have the right to hire any attorney you wish. People who cannot afford an attorney are referred to the public defender. Either way, your loved one is not obligated to answer questions unless their attorney is with them. It’s a good idea to exercise their right to remain silent until their lawyer arrives. The attorney can make sure your loved one gets any prescription medication they need, if applicable.
Step 3: Wait for the Court Appearance
Your loved one will be called in front of a judge to have their charges read to them. If you attend the hearing, be prompt and dress appropriately for court. The judge will also use this time to set a bail amount if they decide your loved one isn’t a flight risk. Most people who are charged with a crime qualify for bail, but in cases of repeat offenses or very serious crimes, they might have to wait in jail until their next court date.
Step 4: Hire a Bail Bond Attorney
Hiring an experienced bail bond lawyer right away has its benefits. First, they can try and negotiate a lower bail amount with the court. They will review the terms of release and can even ask or the bail amount to be waived completely, especially for minor or first-time offenses. They can also get to work on your loved one’s case immediately and make sure everything is handled as it should be.
Step 5: Prepare for the Future
If your loved one was given a bail amount and you helped them bond out, you will be able to bring them home after the court hearing. If the judge determined that they have to stay in jail, you can help them prepare for their trial by making sure they have a good defense attorney and money in their account.
Call Davis, Ermis and Roberts, LLC: Your Dallas Criminal Defense Experts
Having an expert criminal defense attorney on your side will improve your loved one’s odds of having more favorable terms of release and give them an extra advocate who knows the law. When a family member gets arrested, don’t let them face the criminal justice system alone. Call Davis, Ermis and Roberts to get immediate representation for your loved one. Our talented legal team works tirelessly to make sure our clients get fair treatment and have their legal rights honored. We are located in Grand Prairie, TX, and we proudly serve the whole Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.