Facing criminal allegations can be scary and overwhelming. The first 72 hours after being arrested or charged with a crime in Pennsylvania can leave you extremely confused about what to do. Nevertheless, it is important that you take prompt action to protect your legal rights and make sure you do not end up in the worst possible situation. Speaking with a strong and reliable Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney is vital during the first 72 hours after being arrested. 

At Strand Law Offices, LLC, our team enjoys giving clients trustworthy legal direction and skilled representation in their criminal cases. Our dependable attorney can investigate all the facts of your case and strategize a solid defense in pursuit of the best available outcome for your unique situation. We’re proud to serve clients across West Chester, Lancaster County, and surrounding counties throughout Pennsylvania. 

First 72 Hours After an Arrest 

Every day, several individuals in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and across the nation are arrested and charged with misdemeanors and felonies. According to statistics from the Pennsylvania UCR Program, there were 269,632 total reported offenses statewide in 2021. If you have been arrested or indicted for a crime or if you’re under criminal investigation, here’s what you should do: 

Remain Silent 

After the arrest and before you are charged, you have the right to remain silent. Any statement you make immediately after being arrested will be used by the prosecution against you in court. Therefore, it is in your best interest to remain silent and only talk to your attorney. In fact, do not speak to anyone without the consent or presence of your lawyer. 

Hire an Attorney 

Furthermore, you need to retain a skilled criminal defense attorney after the arrest – even if you think you’re guilty. Your legal counsel can help investigate every detail of your case, gather substantial evidence, and build an effective defense on your behalf. 

Remain Courteous and Polite 

Also, ensure that you remain polite and courteous. It is in your best interest not to fight the arrest or search process physically. Under Pennsylvania law, trying to resist or evade a lawful arrest may result in additional charges. 

Document the Events 

Additionally, carefully document any event which you can remember that led to your arrest. Also, document what happened while you were being arrested, as well as while you were in police custody. 

Ask About Your Charges 

Ask to know about your charges. They should be able to inform you about why you’re being arrested as well as what you’re being charged for. 

Work With Your Attorney 

Communicate honestly and work cordially with your legal counsel to post bail or bond. Depending on the alleged offense or your criminal charges, you may be able to get out of jail by posting bail. Your lawyer can enlighten you about your options and help you post bail. 

Keep a Low Profile 

However, while the investigation is still ongoing, it is important that you keep a low profile. Avoid posting on social media. Don’t reach out to the alleged victim(s) or your accuser. 

Discuss Your Case With Your Attorney Only 

Also, only discuss your case with your legal counsel. Answer all questions truthfully. Do not hide any details from your lawyer. Your legal representative will be in the best position to help you if they know all the necessary details. Also, ensure that you keep your attorney well-informed and up-to-date about the whole situation. 

However, there is a short timeframe between the arrest, arraignment, and your first appearance in court. Therefore, you need to take prompt action to protect your legal rights. You should retain a dependable Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney for proper guidance.

Defending Your Rights & Future 

The first 72 hours after an arrest can be chaotic. However, your response and actions, what you do, or fail to do, can have a significant impact on the aftermath of your criminal case. Moreover, defending your criminal charges without experienced representation is never advisable to ensure that you do not suffer the maximum punishments. Therefore, you need to remain silent and hire a strategic criminal defense attorney for precise guidance and to help protect your rights and future.   

With more than 20 years of extensive experience, we have the knowledge and resources to defend and represent individuals facing criminal charges. As your legal counsel, we can help you navigate the Pennsylvania criminal justice system and represent you aggressively in every phase of the legal proceedings. Our attorney will fight aggressively to uphold your legal rights and improve your chances of a brighter tomorrow.   

Don’t face the criminal justice system alone. Contact Strand Law Offices, LLC today to arrange a simple case assessment with a practiced criminal defense lawyer. Our skilled attorney can outline an effective strategy to help defend your rights, liberty, and future and help you achieve the most favorable outcome in your case. We’re proud to serve clients across West Chester, Lancaster County, and surrounding counties throughout Pennsylvania.