how do i contact my attorney if i'm arrested

Inform the detainee or arrestee of the right to speak to a lawyer Give that person the means through which to speak to a lawyer, such as access to a telephone Provide information about the right to a lawyer at no cost through legal aid, or about any available 24-hour on-call lawyers

Full Answer

How do I get a lawyer if I have been arrested?

As soon as you are arrested, you need to start requesting the ability to contact an attorney. If you have to call from jail, you should be given the opportunity to do so. If you are out on your own recognizance or you have posted bail, set up meetings and contact possible attorneys as soon as possible.

How do I talk to a lawyer about my case?

You should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney or the local public defender's office to talk about your case. An attorney will be able to tell you how your case is likely to fare in court and what to expect as you navigate the criminal justice system.

How do I find a lawyer outside of jail?

Ask your friends or family to call a lawyer. It is probably easier for your friends or family outside jail to find a lawyer on your behalf. They can make an unlimited number of calls and ask the attorney questions. If you trust the person you call, have them contact an attorney for you.

What to do if you have to call from jail?

If you have to call from jail, you should be given the opportunity to do so. If you are out on your own recognizance or you have posted bail, set up meetings and contact possible attorneys as soon as possible. Wait to be booked.

What to do when your lawyer stops communicating with you?

If you have called your attorney, left messages, sent emails, and you still haven't heard a response, the best course of action is to send a certified letter to his or her office questioning the failure to communicate and informing them that you are prepared to find a new lawyer if the situation does not improve.

What should you not say to a lawyer?

Five things not to say to a lawyer (if you want them to take you..."The Judge is biased against me" Is it possible that the Judge is "biased" against you? ... "Everyone is out to get me" ... "It's the principle that counts" ... "I don't have the money to pay you" ... Waiting until after the fact.

What is it called when a lawyer doesn't do his job?

Legal malpractice is a type of negligence in which a lawyer does harm to his or her client. Typically, this concerns lawyers acting in their own interests, lawyers breaching their contract with the client, and, one of the most common cases of legal malpractice, is when lawyers fail to act on time for clients.

Why do prosecutors sometimes choose not to prosecute criminal cases?

Prosecutors may decline to press charges because they think it unlikely that a conviction will result. No matter what the prosecutor's personal feelings about the case, the prosecutor needs legally admissible evidence sufficient to prove the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

How do I talk to my lawyer?

Tips for Talking to an AttorneyAlways be as honest and candid as possible about the facts of your case. ... Ask questions if you don't understand something that your attorney mentions or explains to you.Approach an attorney about your case as soon as you think you may need one.More items...•

Can your lawyer snitch on you?

The attorney-client privilege is a rule that protects the confidentiality of communications between lawyers and clients. Under the rule, attorneys may not divulge their clients' secrets, nor may others force them to.

How often should I contact my lawyer?

Regular communication between a lawyer and their client is key, but there is no exact number of times you should be calling your attorney during an active case. A simple rule of thumb is to speak with your personal injury attorney when it's necessary.

Is it normal not to hear from your attorney?

Throughout the process of getting your financial settlement after becoming injured, there may be periods of time that you do not hear from your attorney. Although this can be unnerving, it is a normal part of the legal process.

Why do lawyers not take cases?

A lawyer will consider the possible damages that may be awarded in the best case scenario. If these damages are less than the fee that he or she would likely collect, the lawyer will likely not take the case and recommend that the client not pursue it.

Can charges be dropped after sentencing?

Charges also can be dismissed even if the case has gone to trial and the defendant has lost. A convicted defendant who wins an appeal can sometimes secure an order from the appellate court that the lower court (the trial court) dismiss the case or enter a judgment of acquittal rather than retry the case.

How do you write a letter to a prosecuting attorney?

The address should include the prosecutor's organization, street address, city, state and ZIP code, one under the other. Begin your letter with a suitable greeting. To address a prosecutor, use "Dear Mr." or "Dear Ms." followed by the prosecutor's last name.

Can police decide not to prosecute?

If the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) or police decide not to charge a suspect then he will have no further action taken against him. A decision not to charge is sometimes called a decision not to prosecute or taking no further action ('NFA').

What to do if you are arrested?

There are many things you can and should do once you have been arrested. These will help ensure that your legal rights are not violated. Some of the things you should do if arrested include: 1 Remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions the police ask you in connection with the arrest. Anything you say can potentially be used against you in court. 2 Be polite and behave respectfully towards the police officer (s). 3 Remain calm. 4 Contact your attorney or ask for one if you don’t have one yet. Don’t say anything until the attorney is present. 5 Try to remember the badge numbers of any officers you interact with, as well as their patrol car number (s). 6 Make sure that your attorney is present for any questioning or discussions. 7 Be sure that your attorney is present for any lineups or testing procedures (such as drawing a blood sample. 8 Let your attorney deal with the police and prosecutors, especially if they offer you some kind of deal or plea bargain. 9 If you have been injured, take photographs of the injuries as soon as possible and seek medical attention. 10 Try to find and identify witnesses and get their contact information (name, phone number).

What should I do if I'm arrested by the police?

For example, you should generally remain calm and silent and get an attorney who can advise you of your rights and help you with complicated criminal laws and the legal system. There are also many things you shouldn’t do if you’ve been arrested.

How to remember police badge number?

Try to remember the badge numbers of any officers you interact with, as well as their patrol car number (s). Make sure that your attorney is present for any questioning or discussions. Be sure that your attorney is present for any lineups or testing procedures (such as drawing a blood sample.

How to be calm when arrested?

Anything you say can potentially be used against you in court. Be polite and behave respectfully towards the police officer (s). Remain calm. Contact your attorney or ask for one if you don’t have one yet.

What can a criminal defense lawyer do?

A qualified criminal defense lawyer in your area can inform you of your rights and defenses and represent you in court. The above do’s and don’ts are suggestions that can help ensure your rights are protected. An experienced criminal lawyer can help protect your legal rights as well.

What to say to police when they come to your house?

Often times they will say things like, “It will be easier on you if you just tell the truth.”. However, this may only make it easier for the police to prove their case. If the police come to your home or residence, do not let them in unless they have a warrant and do not go outside.

How to ensure that you cooperate and your rights are protected?

To ensure that you cooperate and your rights are protected: Do not say or describe anything about the incident to the police. Do not yell or mouth off to the police or do anything to upset them. Do not attempt to run from the police. You will likely be caught and it will not help your case in court.

Why Should I Hire an Attorney?

Regardless of whether you are charged with a minor offense or a serious felony, having an attorney will make a big difference. An attorney can help in many ways, including:

When Should I Hire an Attorney?

If a police officer arrests you for allegedly committing a crime, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as you are able.

How Do I Hire a Lawyer If I am Already Arrested?

The law requires that you be given access to a legal representation before questioning. When you are arrested, inform the police that you would like to speak to an attorney. If you have worked with a criminal defense lawyer before, you should contact them assuming you were satisfied with their services.

How Do I Choose the Right Attorney For My Case?

Hiring the right attorney can make all the difference when coming up with the best possible defense for your case. Consider the following before hiring an attorney for your case:

How Much Does It Cost To Hire an Attorney?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on the attorney’s experience, the law firm, and how complicated your case is. The cost will also vary depending on whether you only need a consultation, a one-time court appearance, or representation at trial. Most attorneys will charge you either hourly or by a flat-fee arrangement.

What to do after initial consultation with attorney?

After you have an initial consultation with the attorney, take some time to look over your notes and reflect on your experience. If you have consultations scheduled with other attorneys, have those before you make a final decision (unless you know after that first meeting that you don't want to hire that attorney).

What happens if you don't get along with an attorney?

Also take personality into consideration. If someone you know didn't get along with an attorney, there might have been a simple mismatch of personalities.

How often do you get a bill for an attorney?

After they've exhausted your retainer on time and other expenses, you'll receive a bill, typically once a month, for attorney's fees. This is typically the most expensive way to hire an attorney.

How to resolve legal issues on your own?

Start by getting names and contact information of at least 2 or 3 lawyers who could potentially help you .

How to get arrested for a crime?

When you're being arrested, the police usually do their job in the following order: 1 Tell you that you have the right to talk to a lawyer without delay 2 Search you for weapons 3 Complete their booking procedure 4 Make it possible for you to call a lawyer

What happens if you are arrested by the police?

If the police decide to arrest you, they will usually take you into . This means you are not free to go. People who are being arrested are usually handcuffed. If you're being arrested, the police believe there are. to you with a criminal offence.

How to talk to a lawyer without delay?

Tell you that you have the right to talk to a lawyer without delay. Search you for weapons. Complete their booking procedure. Make it possible for you to call a lawyer. If you ask, they must allow you to contact a lawyer. You must tell the police that you want to talk to a lawyer.

Can you talk to a lawyer in private?

You must be allowed to talk to the lawyer in private. The police are allowed to search you for weapons and complete their booking procedure before you talk to your lawyer. If you've asked to talk to a lawyer, they are not supposed to keep questioning you until after you've talked to your lawyer. Next step: 1.

What information do you need to be a lawyer before arraignment?

Your attorney needs time to review the facts of your case before arraignment -- including your ties to the community and your criminal history (or lack thereof). This information can help your lawyer persuade the judge to release you from jail or set a reasonable bail.

What happens if you miss a court date?

If you miss a mandatory court date and you are not in custody, the judge may issue a warrant for your arrest. Your attorney should inform you of court dates, including hearings and other procedures. Your attorney should also discuss with you if he or she plans to postpone any court dates.

What is the right to retain an attorney?

Your Right to an Attorney If You’re Arrested and Accused of a Crime. Today, if you are accused of a crime, you have the right to retain an attorney. Under the U.S. Constitution and the New York State Constitution, if you cannot afford an attorney, a public defense attorney should be provided for you at the expense of the state.

Can you retain a lawyer in New York?

A. Today, if you are accused of a crime, you have the right to retain an attorney. Under the U.S. Constitution and the New York State Constitution, if you cannot afford an attorney, a public defense attorney should be provided for you at the expense of the state.

What to do if you are arrested?

The single most important thing to remember if you are arrested is that you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, but these rights protect you only if you use them! If you are arrested, the best thing that you can do for yourself is to keep quiet until you are represented by a lawyer.

What to do if you are arrested and charged with a crime?

If you are arrested and charged with a crime, you are entitled to the assistance of an attorney. You should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney or the local public defender's office to talk about your case.

What is probable cause in criminal justice?

the officer has probable cause (reason to believe) that the person has committed a felony (any crime punishable by state prison), or. a judge or magistrate has issued an arrest warrant, supported by probable cause. For more information, see Arrests and Probable Cause.

What does a police officer say?

Usually, a police officer will say something along the lines of, "You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney and if you cannot afford an attorney one will be appointed for you. If you waive these rights and talk to us, anything you say may be used against you in court.

What happens after you are arrested?

If you are arrested, you will be searched – either at the scene or at jail, or both – and any contraband or evidence will be seized. You will be photographed and fingerprinted and there will be a record of the arrest.

What does an attorney do?

Working with a good attorney is the best way to protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome in your case.

How to remain silent after arrest?

People often say, "I don't want to talk" and then they start talking, say something incriminating, and it gets used against them in court. You can tell police your name and basic information, such as your address and birth date, but do not tell them anything else. After your arrest, do not talk to police officers, do not talk to family or friends about your case, and do not talk to other inmates.

Howard Woodley Bailey

Assuming your lawyer has been arrested and is still in custody, I suggest you contact his office immediately to see if he or his office has designated an attorney to act in his place. If the lawyer has been arrested and released, you need to speak with him, as suggested by my collegues who have responded to this question.

Ronald Anthony Sarno

I suggest you call the NJ Client Protection Fund at 609-292-8008 to see if he can still practice law, and if he cannot who has been designated to take his cases.

Jonathan H Levy

If he was arrested for a matter unrelated to your case and has not been convicted, it might have not have an effect on your situation. However, at the very least the attorney owes you an explanation as to whether his arrest will effect your case or not.