(713) 309-6626Getting arrested is a life-altering experience. It’s fast. It’s confusing. And if you don’t act quickly, and smartly, it can change the course of your future.
As a Houston criminal defense lawyer with experience on both sides of the courtroom, I’m here to give it to you straight: What you do in the first few hours after an arrest matters. A lot.
Here’s what you need to know, and what you need to do if you’re arrested in Houston.
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Resist
Whether you think the arrest is fair or not, now is not the time to argue or resist. Doing so could lead to additional charges like resisting arrest or assaulting an officer. Stay calm. Be respectful. Save your fight for the courtroom, that’s where it counts.
2. Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
You are not required to explain anything to law enforcement. In fact, you shouldn’t.
Tell the officer clearly:
“I’m invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak to a lawyer.”
Then stop talking.
Anything you say can and will be used against you. Let that sink in. Even seemingly harmless comments can hurt your case later.
3. Don’t Talk to Police Without a Criminal Defense Lawyer Present
Detectives are trained to get information out of you. They may sound friendly. They may promise to “help you out.” But the truth is, they’re not on your side.
Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, DWI, or drug charge, do not answer questions without your criminal defense lawyer present.
4. Call a Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately
If you’re in custody, or someone you care about is, get a qualified Houston criminal defense lawyer on the phone fast. Early intervention is one of the best ways to protect your rights and start building a strong defense.
At Allon Law, we act quickly to:
- Communicate with law enforcement and prosecutors
- Work toward a bond or release
- Protect your statements and rights from the start
The sooner we’re involved, the better your chances.
5. Don’t Post on Social Media
This one’s simple: Stay off social media.
Anything you post can be pulled into your case and twisted against you. Even private messages aren’t safe. Let your lawyer do the talking, for you and about you.
6. Understand the Charges (and the Stakes)
Don’t underestimate the impact of an arrest, even for a first-time offense. Criminal charges can carry:
- Jail or prison time
- Heavy fines
- Probation
- A permanent record
- Long-term consequences for jobs, school, and housing
A skilled criminal defense lawyer will help you understand what you’re facing, and what options are available to fight back.
7. Start Building Your Defense Early
The prosecution begins working on your case from day one. You should too.
At Allon Law, we investigate immediately, challenge weak evidence, and look for every opportunity to reduce or dismiss charges. As a former prosecutor, I know how they build their case, and how to dismantle it.
Arrested in Houston? Don’t Wait. Get a Criminal Defense Lawyer on Your Side.
An arrest is not the end of the story, but how you respond determines what happens next. If you or a loved one has been arrested in the Houston area, don’t guess your way through it. Don’t take chances. Contact Allon Law today. We’ll guide you through the process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome, because your future is worth defending.
