What To Do If Your Friend Is Arrested

Posted on November 7, 2007
Filed Under Criminal Law, Legal Defense Tips |

What would you do if you found out a friend or relative has been arrested? Would you know how to help your loved one protect his rights and get the legal assistance he needs? Below are the steps you can take should you ever find yourself in this situation.

Steps to Take

  1. When you receive the phone call about the arrest, find out where your friend is being held and what he is charged with.
  2. If you are able to speak directly with your friend, tell him to say that he wants a lawyer. Explain that you will find one for him and until the lawyer is present, he should not answer any compromising questions, make any statements, or take any tests.
  3. Search for a criminal defense attorney to represent your friend. Once you find a lawyer, tell him where your friend is located, what he is charged with, and any other relevant information.

Cautious Cooperation

While talking with your friend, emphasize the importance of having legal representation. Tell your friend that he needs to remain cooperative, but should not volunteer any information besides the basics, like his name and address. In response to any attempts at interrogation, your friend should request a lawyer. It is okay if he has to be a broken record.

Legal Representation

Getting a good lawyer is essential. When you first find an attorney for your friend, explain that, for now, you only need his services for the short term. If you are dissatisfied with him, you can hire a new attorney before your friend

Written by Ian

Comments

2 Responses to “What To Do If Your Friend Is Arrested”

  1. Jay Chang on November 19th, 2007 8:23 pm

    Another important thing is that you and you’re friend should probably discuss such things in advance - that is if you know you’re in a legally comprising position. But other wise good points.

  2. Lucy on November 19th, 2007 8:40 pm

    This reminds me of when one of my boyfriends was in jail on a Sunday. He told me what he supposedly was charged with. I managed to come up with money and have a friend drive me to the jail, only to find that there was an additional charge and a trial the following day. Looking back, I should ahve had him just deal with a lawyer or public defender.

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