What to Do If You’re Arrested in Dallas: Your Rights and Legal Options

Introduction

Being arrested is a daunting experience that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Knowing your legal rights and understanding the legal process in Dallas can make all the difference. Whether you’ve been accused of a minor offense or a serious crime, it’s essential to act quickly and wisely to protect your freedom and future.

This guide will walk you through the arrest process, your rights under Texas law, and the steps you should take to secure legal representation. At Chris Lewis & Associates P.C., our experienced attorneys provide comprehensive legal support for those facing criminal charges. Our goal is to help you navigate the criminal justice system and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

1. What Happens When You’re Arrested?

The arrest process typically begins when a law enforcement officer believes there is probable cause that a person has committed a crime. Probable cause is a reasonable belief, based on facts and evidence, that a person has broken the law.

Here’s what happens during a typical arrest:

Initial arrest – A law enforcement officer places you in custody, informs you that you are under arrest, and explains the reason for your arrest.
Miranda rights – The arresting officer must inform you of your right to remain silent and your right to have an attorney present during questioning.
Transport to the police station – You are taken to the police station or jail for booking.
Booking process – During booking, you are fingerprinted, photographed, and your personal information is recorded.
Custody – You remain in custody until bail is set or you are released on your own recognizance.

2. Your Rights During an Arrest

When you are arrested, you have certain rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and Texas law. It is essential to understand and exercise these rights to protect yourself.

Right to Remain Silent

You have the right to remain silent to avoid self-incrimination. Anything you say to police officers can be used against you in court. It is in your best interest to remain silent until you have an attorney present. If questioned, you can say, “I am invoking my right to remain silent.”

Right to an Attorney

You have the right to legal representation. Requesting an attorney ensures that you have a legal advocate to protect your rights. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court may appoint one for you.

Protection from Unreasonable Searches and Seizures

Police officers must have probable cause or a warrant to search your person, home, or vehicle. If police search your property without a warrant, your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence in court.

3. What to Do After an Arrest

After your arrest, your actions can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm and Comply

Resisting arrest can result in additional charges and escalate the situation. Stay calm, comply with instructions, and avoid physical resistance.

2. Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

As soon as possible, tell the arresting officer that you are exercising your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or discuss your case without an attorney present.

3. Request an Attorney

Ask for an attorney as soon as possible. Legal representation is critical during questioning and throughout the legal process. An experienced attorney can protect you from mistakes that may hurt your case.

4. Avoid Discussing the Case

Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney. Conversations with friends, family members, or cellmates can be used as evidence against you.

5. Contact a Family Member or Loved One

If allowed, call a family member to inform them of your arrest. They can help secure bail or contact an attorney on your behalf.

4. Booking and Custody

After you are arrested, you will be taken to the police station or a local jail for booking. This process includes:

Taking fingerprints – Your fingerprints are entered into a law enforcement database.
Mugshot – Police will take your photograph.
Personal information – You must provide personal information such as your name, address, and date of birth.

Once the booking process is complete, you will remain in custody until bail is set.

5. How Bail Works in Dallas

Bail allows you to be released from jail while awaiting your court date. There are several ways to post bail, including cash bail, bail bonds, or being released on your own recognizance. Bail is determined by a judge who considers the severity of the crime, your criminal record, and your flight risk.

If you cannot afford bail, you can contact a bail bond company. They will pay your bail for a fee, usually 10% of the bail amount. If you fail to appear in court, you may face additional charges, and the bail bond company may lose its money.

6. Building Your Defense Strategy

After being released from custody, the most critical step is to work with an attorney to build a defense strategy. A strong defense strategy can lead to a plea deal, reduced charges, or even the dismissal of charges.

An experienced attorney will review the evidence against you, challenge the prosecution’s case, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. This could include arguing that police had no probable cause, that evidence was illegally obtained, or that you were misidentified as the suspect.

7. How Chris Lewis & Associates P.C. Can Help

If you’ve been arrested in Dallas, the legal team at Chris Lewis & Associates P.C. is ready to help. Our law firm provides comprehensive legal support to clients facing all types of criminal charges. Our attorneys have the legal experience necessary to guide you through the criminal justice system and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Here’s how we can assist you:

Provide guidance on your legal options.
Work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy.
Present evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Dismiss charges when possible.

We understand that being arrested is an emotional experience. Our goal is to help you move forward and protect your rights.

Learn more about what to do if you’re arrested in Dallas: your rights and legal options. Call Chris Lewis & Associates P.C. at (214) 665-6930 to schedule your free consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward protecting your rights and freedom.

FAQs

1. Should I talk to police officers if I’m arrested?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say to police can be used against you. It is in your best interest to remain silent and wait for an attorney.

2. How long can I be held in custody before bail is set?
You are entitled to a bail hearing within a reasonable time, often within 48 hours. However, delays may occur if you are arrested over a weekend or holiday.

3. Can I be released on my own recognizance?
In some cases, the judge may release you on your own recognizance, which means you are released without having to pay bail. This usually happens if you have strong community ties and are not considered a flight risk.

4. What if the arresting officer did not read me my Miranda rights?
If the police failed to read your Miranda rights, certain statements you made may be inadmissible in court. Your attorney can challenge this evidence during your case.

5. How can a criminal defense attorney help me?
A criminal defense attorney protects your rights, challenges evidence, and builds a defense strategy tailored to your case. They will fight to have your charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved through a plea deal.

6. What happens if I am convicted of a crime?
If you are convicted, you could face penalties such as jail time, probation, or a criminal record. The potential consequences depend on the type and severity of the crime. An experienced attorney will work to minimize these penalties.

If you or a loved one has been arrested in Dallas, it’s essential to know your rights and legal options. Contact Chris Lewis & Associates P.C. for a free consultation and get the legal support you need to protect your future.