What Should I Do Immediately After Being Arrested?
It’s one of the most stressful moments anyone can face — being placed in handcuffs, read your rights, and loaded into the back of a police car. Whether you saw it coming or it took you completely by surprise, your mind is probably racing with fear and confusion.
But what you do in the hours after an arrest can shape your entire case.
The good news? You are not powerless. With the right guidance and a smart legal strategy, you can protect yourself, assert your rights, and begin building a strong criminal defense in Colorado from the very first moment.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Don’t Resist
Getting arrested is scary — but resisting arrest will only make things worse.
Even if you believe the arrest is unfair or unjustified, remain calm and cooperative. Do not argue, run, pull away, or get physical. Doing so could lead to additional charges such as:
- Resisting arrest
- Obstruction of justice
- Assaulting a peace officer
Let your defense attorney challenge the arrest in court. Your job right now is to stay safe and say as little as possible.
Step 2: Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
You’ve heard it on TV: “You have the right to remain silent.” But here’s the part most people forget — you have to actually use that right.
The moment you’re arrested, you should say:
“I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak to a lawyer.”
After that, stop talking.
Even casual conversation with the arresting officer can be used against you. Whether you’re in the squad car, the holding cell, or being fingerprinted, assume everything you say is being recorded.
Exercising your right to silence is not a sign of guilt — it’s a sign that you’re protecting yourself with smart criminal defense in Colorado from the start.
Step 3: Don’t Consent to Any Searches
Police may ask for your permission to search your car, phone, backpack, or home. Even if they act like it’s no big deal, never give consent without talking to a lawyer first.
Say:
“I do not consent to any searches.”
If they proceed anyway, your attorney may be able to challenge any evidence they find — but only if it was gathered illegally.
This small statement can play a major role in the outcome of your criminal defense in Colorado.
Step 4: Remember Key Details About the Arrest
As soon as you’re able, try to write down or mentally note everything you remember about the arrest:
- What time and where it happened
- What was said by officers
- If you were read your rights
- Whether any force was used
- Who else witnessed the arrest
- If you were searched and how
These details can help your attorney file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the arrest, or argue for a dismissal. If there are violations of your rights, this information could be critical to your case.
Step 5: Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
This is the most important step.
The earlier you involve an attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Your lawyer can:
- Advise you before police questioning
- Appear at your arraignment or bail hearing
- Begin gathering evidence and witnesses
- Challenge the arrest or request dismissal
- Handle communication with the police and court
An experienced attorney practicing criminal defense in Colorado will know how to navigate the local system, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every turn.
Step 6: Call a Trusted Contact
If you’re allowed a phone call, contact someone who can:
- Notify your attorney
- Help post bail
- Retrieve your belongings
- Be a witness to your condition or what happened
Don’t call people who will post about your arrest online or spread rumors. And never talk about the charges over the jail phone — it’s likely recorded and can be used as evidence.
Step 7: Don’t Discuss Your Case With Anyone Else
Whether it’s a friend in the holding cell, a family member at home, or a bondsman on the phone — do not talk about your case.
Conversations with anyone except your lawyer are not protected and can be subpoenaed by the court. Even text messages or voicemails can come back to haunt you.
Until you’ve met with your lawyer, the only thing you should say is:
“I’m not answering any questions without my attorney.”
This isn’t just smart — it’s essential to protecting your criminal defense in Colorado.
Step 8: Attend All Court Dates and Follow All Conditions
Once released, your case isn’t over — in fact, it’s just beginning.
Missing court or violating the terms of your bond can:
- Lead to a new arrest warrant
- Cause your bail to be revoked
- Hurt your credibility with the judge
- Result in additional charges
Make sure you:
- Know your next court date
- Show up early and appropriately dressed
- Avoid any new legal trouble
- Stay in close contact with your attorney
Doing so shows the court that you’re serious about resolving the matter — and helps your attorney advocate more effectively on your behalf.
What Happens in the Days After Your Arrest?
Here’s a basic timeline of what to expect after being arrested in Colorado:
Within 48–72 hours:
You’ll have an arraignment or bond hearing. Your attorney can argue for your release or a reduced bail amount.
After arraignment:
Your case moves into the pretrial phase. Your lawyer will begin reviewing evidence, negotiating with the prosecution, and preparing your defense.
Over the next few weeks or months:
You may attend hearings, file motions, or enter negotiations. If your case isn’t resolved, it could proceed to trial.
Each of these steps is easier — and far more successful — when guided by a lawyer experienced in criminal defense in Colorado.
Real-World Example: The Right Move at the Right Time
A man in Colorado was arrested after a bar fight. At the police station, officers tried to question him about the incident. He said nothing and requested a lawyer.
His attorney discovered that the witness who claimed the man had started the fight was intoxicated and had a history of false reports. Because the client hadn’t confessed or made any statements, the attorney was able to get the charges dropped before trial.
The decision to stay silent and call a lawyer changed everything — and that’s the kind of result strong criminal defense in Colorado can deliver.
What NOT to Do After Being Arrested
- Don’t try to talk your way out of it. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Don’t post about your arrest on social media. It can be discovered and used in court.
- Don’t skip court or ignore paperwork. It could lead to a warrant.
- Don’t panic. The system is complex, but you have rights — and legal help is available.
Why Early Legal Help Makes the Biggest Difference
Getting arrested is a crisis — but it can also be a turning point.
The right legal team can:
- Challenge the legality of your arrest
- Suppress damaging evidence
- Negotiate a dismissal, diversion, or reduced charge
- Guide you through every court appearance
- Help you avoid jail and protect your record
From your first phone call to your final hearing, a skilled criminal defense in Colorado is your best ally in protecting your freedom and your future.
What to Do Next
Arrested in Colorado? Don’t wait to protect yourself.
- Call now for a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney
- Get answers, guidance, and immediate help
- Start your defense the moment your case begins — not after it’s too late
Meet Dion Custis: A Criminal Defense Lawyer in Colorado Who Knows How to Win
For over 30 years, Dion J. Custis has fought for people just like you — individuals facing criminal charges and unsure of what comes next. Licensed in both Colorado and Wyoming, he’s handled thousands of cases in state and federal courtrooms, including:
- Felony assault charges
- Self-defense claims
- Allegations involving police officers
- Complex, high-stakes trial cases.
You don’t need to know the law. You need a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to use the law to protect you.
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Start Building Your Defense Now — While You Still Have Time
You’ve got one shot to protect your name, your job, your record, and your freedom. Make it count. Don’t Face the System Alone — Schedule a Free Criminal Case Review Today.