Below we offer general recommendations for an appropriate course of action for individuals who may be involved in a federal case. While this article offers guidelines for those arrested for a federal crime, it is not a substitute for the guidance of a lawyer who has knowledge of the specific details of the case in question.
Do not resist arrest.
There are no circumstances under which resisting arrest is a wise course of action. Resisting arrest will usually result in the use of force by the arresting officer. Furthermore, it will likely lead to additional charges, even if the initial arrest was unlawful.
Exercise your right to remain silent.
Depending on whether or not they intend to question you, the arresting officers may or may not give you a Miranda warning.
You should know that the right to remain silent is yours whether or not it is stated at the time of your arrest.
You should feel free to answer basic demographic questions: name, age, height and weight, and so on. Otherwise, tell your arresting officer nothing. Use this phrase instead: “I will not answer that until I talk to my lawyer.”
Furthermore, do not discuss your case with jail inmates, family, or friends – these conversations can be used as evidence against you. Only conversations with your lawyer are protected and cannot be used as evidence.
Remember that the federal agents are not going to arrest you just because you refuse to speak to them. If the federal government has enough evidence against you, they will arrest you regardless of whether you speak to them or not. There is always a chance to talk to them later after an experienced attorney advises you if talking to them will help you.
Hire an experienced attorney with a successful track record.
If you think you might be arrested, it is wise to hire a lawyer prior to your arrest and memorize the phone number. If you have already been arrested, you will come before a federal Magistrate Judge within a day. Tell the Magistrate Judge that you want a lawyer before anything else happens in your case. If you have not already hired an attorney, the Magistrate Judge will give you an opportunity to do so.
Whether you make the hire before or after the arrest has occurred, it is important to seek out an attorney with extensive experience dealing with federal cases. You will want to hire the best criminal defense attorney possible. Ensure that your attorney has a proven track record obtaining the best outcomes for cases like yours.
The attorney’s office should be able to provide you with numerous case results demonstrating their familiarity with and success in handling numerous situations that can arise in federal court. Throughout the process of the federal case, choosing a lawyer is the most important decision you will make.
Get a free initial consultation.
If you or someone you loved has been accused of a federal offense, you can contact us for a free initial consultation. At Tim Bower Rodriguez, P.A., our attorneys aggressively and successfully defend people accused of federal crimes. We are committed to giving you the best defense possible and are available to answer any of your questions.
Call us today at (813) 384-7555 or (407) 982-5508 for a free phone consultation.
