What to Do (and What NOT to Do) If You’ve Been Arrested

Being arrested is a frightening experience. The moment handcuffs are placed on your wrists, panic, confusion, and fear set in. What happens next could determine your future. Whether you are innocent or made a mistake, what you do—and don’t do—after an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

At Falodun Law, we understand the high stakes involved. The criminal justice system is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you or a loved one has been arrested, follow these critical steps to protect your rights and give yourself the best chance at a strong defense.

A person standing with hands in handcuffs, conveying a sense of restraint and legal implications.

What to Do If You Are Arrested

1. Stay Calm and Keep Your Emotions in Check

The way you handle yourself in the first moments of an arrest can affect your entire case. Stay calm, do not argue, and do not resist. Resisting arrest—even if you believe you are innocent—can lead to additional charges.

2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

You’ve heard it before: "Anything you say can and will be used against you in court." This is not just a warning—it is a reality.

Do not try to explain yourself. Do not answer any questions. Do not try to talk your way out of the situation. Simply say:

👉 "I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want to speak to my attorney."

Then say nothing else. The police may try to pressure you into talking, but remember—silence is your best defense.

3. Request an Attorney Immediately

The police are not your friends, and they are not there to help you. They are trained to get information that could be used against you in court. The only person who has your best interests in mind is your attorney.

Do not answer questions without a lawyer present. Call Falodun Law as soon as possible so we can start building your defense immediately.

4. Take Mental Notes About Your Arrest

If possible, pay attention to the details of your arrest, including:

✔️ The officers’ names and badge numbers

✔️ Whether you were read your Miranda Rights

✔️ What the officers said to you

✔️ If there were any witnesses present

These details could be crucial in fighting your case.

5. Be Respectful, But Do Not Consent to Searches

The police may ask for permission to search your belongings, your car, or your home. You have the right to refuse.

If an officer asks, "Can I search your vehicle?" calmly respond:

👉 "I do not consent to any searches."

Never physically resist a search, but make it clear that you do not give permission. If they search anyway, your attorney may be able to challenge the search later in court.

What NOT to Do If You Are Arrested

1. Do NOT Talk to the Police Without an Attorney

Law enforcement officers may act friendly, telling you things like:

🚔 "We just want to hear your side of the story."

🚔 "If you cooperate, things will go easier for you."

🚔 "You don’t need a lawyer if you have nothing to hide."

Do not fall for these tactics. Their goal is to gather information to build a case against you. Even if you are completely innocent, anything you say can be twisted and used against you.

2. Do NOT Resist Arrest

Resisting arrest—even if you believe it is unfair—will only make things worse. You could face additional charges like obstruction or resisting arrest. Stay calm, comply physically, but do not answer questions.

3. Do NOT Agree to Any Deals or Plea Bargains Without Consulting a Lawyer

Prosecutors may offer you a plea deal early in the case. They might try to convince you that pleading guilty is your "best option"—but do not accept anything without speaking to an attorney first.

At Falodun Law, we analyze every angle of your case and determine whether a plea deal is truly in your best interest. Do not sign anything until we review it.

4. Do NOT Post About Your Arrest on Social Media

🚨 Avoid social media at all costs.

🚨 Anything you post—even something as simple as “I can’t believe this happened”—can be used as evidence against you. Prosecutors and law enforcement monitor social media closely. Do not give them anything to work with.

5. Do NOT Assume That Your Case Is Hopeless

Just because you’ve been arrested does not mean you will be convicted. There are always defense strategies available, even in the most serious cases.

At Falodun Law, we know how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, expose weaknesses in the case, and fight for your freedom. No case is unwinnable—let us fight for you.

Your Best Defense Starts Now – Call Falodun Law.

If you or a loved one has been arrested, do not wait. The earlier you get an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side, the better your chances of a successful outcome.

At Falodun Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting aggressively to get you the best possible result. We know the system, we know the strategies, and we know how to win.

📞 Call us now for a free consultation: (301) 289-7737

📍 Serving clients in Washington, D.C., and Maryland

Your future is too important to leave to chance. Get the defense you deserve—contact Falodun Law today.