Arrested
- You have the right to remain silent. Do not give explanations, excuses, or stories. Save your defense for when you are in court. Tell the police nothing but your name and address.
- You have the right to have a lawyer. If you can not afford to hire a lawyer, you have the right to a free lawyer. Ask to see a lawyer immediately. Never talk to the police without a lawyer present. Do not make any decisions about your case without talking to a lawyer.
- You have the right to make phone calls. When you are arrested, you are entitled to make phone calls within the local area to a lawyer, bail bondsman, a relative or any other person. It is a good idea to call a relative or friend first who can make other calls for you.
- You have the right to appear before a judge on the next court day for a hearing on release on bond or without bail. You may ask the judge to lower your bail or to be released "on your own recognizance" (without bail). Don't hesitate to present to the judge your reasons why you should not remain in jail pending trial, even if you don't have a lawyer yet.