What are my rights when I'm under arrest?
Submitted by Steve Silverman on Wed, 02/25/2009 - 12:46
If you're arrested you have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney. You have the right to be brought before a judge within 72 hours and charged. And you have the right to be treated fairly under the law.
If you're arrested, don't rely on police to inform you of your right to remain silent and see a lawyer. Use the magic words "I'm going to remain silent. I would like to see a lawyer." If police persist in questioning you, repeat the magic words. The magic words are like a legal condom. They're your best protection if you're under arrest.
Remember that anything you say can and will be used against you in court. So don't try to talk yourself out of the situation, and don't make small talk with police either.
