What to Do After Being Arrested in Conway, South Carolina

If you’ve been arrested in Conway, your natural inclination may be to panic, and you wouldn’t be alone. A far better approach, however, is to remember that you have necessary rights and invoke them from the start. Doing so can make a profound difference in the outcome of your case. One of the most important of these is your right to an attorney, which makes it in your best interest to consult with an experienced Conway criminal defense attorney at L. Morgan Martin, P.A., sooner rather than later.

Remain Calm and Courteous

While being extremely anxious in the aftermath of an arrest is to be expected, remaining calm and courteous is the best path forward. By doing so, you set a tone that is very likely to remain in effect. If you let your nerves get the better of you or become defiant, the situation could escalate, which won’t benefit you in the long run.

Don’t Give Your Permission to Search

If you are pulled over or detained, the police may ask to search one or more of the following in search of evidence or other contraband like drugs:

• A vehicle you are driving
• The home where you live
• An office or workplace
• Any bag, purse, or backpack you are carrying

Whether or not the police can proceed with a search depends on the circumstances. They generally require probable cause –such as a warrant or your permission– to search your car. It is in your best interest to let the police know that you do not permit them to search your property. While they might proceed with the search anyway, your refusal to allow them can strengthen your defense.

Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

If you are arrested or otherwise detained, consulting with a skilled criminal defense lawyer early on is crucial. However, until that happens, the most critical step you can take is to invoke your right to remain silent. At this point, volunteering information is unlikely to do you any favors.

Once arrested and after you have provided the basic identifying information you’re required to share, it’s time to let the officer know that you won’t be doing any more talking. A key component of this is remaining silent until you have secured skilled legal representation to support you.

Invoke Your Right to an Attorney

The last thing you should say to the officer questioning you is that you want an attorney. This should end the interview process, but if it doesn’t, it remains in your best interest to stay silent. You should not, however, be shy about reminding the officer that you want professional legal counsel.

Reach Out to an Experienced Conway Criminal Defense Lawyer for the Help You Need Today

If you’ve been arrested, it’s essential to take a careful stock of the situation and remember that you have necessary legal rights that are well worth protecting. The capable Conway criminal defense attorneys at L. Morgan Martin are pleased to offer their assistance. Our trusted legal team has earned an impressive reputation for achieving optimal outcomes for our valued clients, and we’re here for you, too. Contact us online or call 843-248-3177 for more information today.