fbpx

What should I do if I’m arrested in South Florida?: Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Advice

What should I do if I’m arrested in South Florida?: Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorneys’ Advice

What should I do if I’m arrested in South Florida?: Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense Attorney shares

It may sound like we’re dodging the question – but really the best thing you can do is call a criminal lawyer.

 

Being arrested is a difficult and emotionally jarring time.

You’re probably not going to be thinking straight, and you need someone who will not only think strategically on your behalf, but also someone who knows the ins-and-outs of the legal system to make sure that ALL of your rights are protected. You need an attorney who will know your rights & how to protect them as well as someone who will defend you and your future.

A good criminal or DUI attorney will make sure that happens.

One of the MOST IMPORTANT REASONS you’ll want to start looking for a South Florida Criminal Defense lawyer right away:

  • When you’re arrested, and even after you make your first court appearance (usually called first-appearance court or magistrate court), you still have about 30-40 days until the charges against you are OFFICIALLY filed by the state prosecutor
  • Effectively, this means your criminal or DUI charges are not FINALIZED yet at the time or your arrest. 
  • During that roughly one-month period, prosecutors do an investigation and work to see if the charges you’re arrested on are the charges you think you should be charged with, or they can lower or increase the charges
  • If you hire an attorney before the charges are filed by the prosecutor, there is a chance that the attorney could get your charges dropped or reduced before they are even filed — which could even save you from having a criminal or felony record altogether! 

You also want to get yourself out of jail as soon as possible after your arrest. Call a family member, or pay the bond to get yourself out. You don’t want to sit in jail for long – for many reasons, but an important one being that the longer you’re in jail, the longer police have to collect information about you, or try to get you to talk, etc. They also will likely record any phone calls you make and those can be used against you so be careful. 

REMEMBER – you don’t need to talk to police AT ALL without an attorney. You can just tell them you’re invoking your 5th amendment right, which is your Miranda Right. This is a right afforded to you that gives you the right to remain silent. Even if police ask you questions – you DO NOT have to answer them. 

This also goes for pre-arrest; if police call you and want to question you or say you’re under investigation, you should not answer any questions and inform the officer that you’re exercising your right to remain silent and will not talk to them without an attorney present.

Then, once you’re out of jail, write down in as much detail as possible exactly what happened. Criminal cases can take up to 18 months depending on the seriousness of the case, and memories fade over time. It’s important to write down everything you can remember – about the day, the police, what they said, what you said, the details of what happened, potential witnesses, etc. 

You also want to write down a list of potential evidence and witnesses. Police officers often don’t conduct a thorough investigation. That’s why you want to give your lawyer as much information as possible so they can do an independent investigation.

He/she will want to speak with defense witnesses, take pictures of the crime scene, request 911 calls, and prepare your defense.

RELATED:

Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
How We Win
Second DUI, 0.19 Breath
DUI Charge Dismissed
Federal Child Porn Possession
Mandatory Prison Time Avoided
Attempted Murder
Charges Dismissed
Google Reviews
kevin tabronkevin tabron
00:07 08 Sep 22
In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!
Jason HigleyJason Higley
15:24 26 Aug 22
I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!
Felix I HFelix I H
13:27 28 Jul 22
Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.
Terry ChristopherTerry Christopher
12:32 09 May 22
I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.
Ketiana ProvinceKetiana Province
20:27 23 Mar 22
My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.
js_loader