If you find yourself facing criminal charges, it can be a scary and stressful experience. It’s important to understand what steps you can take to protect your rights and your future. Here is a guide from a criminal lawyer Murfreesboro TN on what to do if you’re arrested.

1. Remain calm: It’s natural to feel anxious or overwhelmed when you’re arrested, but it’s important to try to stay calm. Losing your cool can make the situation worse and may not help your case.

2. Ask for a lawyer: You have the right to an attorney, and it’s important to exercise this right as soon as possible. Ask to speak with a lawyer as soon as you are arrested or taken into custody.

3. Don’t say anything: You have the right to remain silent, and it’s important to exercise this right. Don’t say anything to the police or anyone else without your lawyer present. This includes making any statements, signing any documents, or answering any questions.

4. Cooperate with the police: While you should exercise your right to remain silent, it’s important to cooperate with the police in other ways. This includes providing your name and identification, and following instructions.

5. Don’t resist arrest: Even if you believe you are being wrongly arrested, it’s important not to resist arrest. Resisting arrest can lead to additional charges and may not help your case.

6. Contact a criminal lawyer: If you don’t already have a lawyer, it’s important to find one as soon as possible. A criminal lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and can provide representation in court.

7. Gather information: If you are arrested, it’s important to try to gather as much information as possible. This may include the names and badge numbers of the arresting officers, the charges against you, and any documents or evidence that you are given.

8. Be prepared for court: If you are charged with a crime, you will likely have to go to court. It’s important to be prepared for this process, which may include hiring a lawyer, gathering evidence and witness statements, and understanding the charges against you.

9. Consider plea bargains: In some cases, it may be in your best interest to accept a plea bargain. A plea bargain is an agreement between the prosecution and the defense in which the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence. Your lawyer can help you understand the pros and cons of accepting a plea bargain.

10. Understand the potential consequences: It’s important to understand the potential consequences of a criminal conviction. These may include imprisonment, fines, probation, and a criminal record. A criminal lawyer can help you understand the potential consequences of your case and can work with you to try to minimize these consequences.

If you’re arrested, it’s important to take steps to protect your rights and your future. By following the tips above and seeking the assistance of a criminal lawyer, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome in your case.