Being arrested can be an overwhelming experience, making you question how your circumstances resulted in you being placed in handcuffs. Given the anxiety you are facing, it is understandable to feel bewildered or even unable to think clearly. Even so, your next steps are crucial to preserving your legal rights.
Thankfully, the Greenville, SC, criminal defense attorneys at Eppes & Plumblee are here to assist you every step of the way. Keep reading to learn what steps our legal team suggests following an arrest.
Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
Your immediate reaction following an arrest may be to try to explain yourself. However, tread carefully as anything you say will be used against you. If you are arrested and taken into custody, the police must read you your rights.
The first right that will be read to you is your right to remain silent, which you should invoke immediately. The only response that you should give an officer after your Miranda rights are read is “I do” or something that acknowledges that you understood what was said to you.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Retaining counsel immediately increases the likelihood of a positive outcome. If you cannot afford representation, a public defender will be appointed to your case. However, public defenders often have heavy caseloads, making it impossible for them to give your case the attention it deserves. Hiring a private criminal defense lawyer immediately will reduce the risk that you will say something to law enforcement that hurts your case.
Attend Your Bond Hearing
Under SC Code § 22-5-510, a person must have a bail or bond hearing within 24 hours of their arrest. At the bond hearing, the judge will read the charges against you and inform you of your Constitutional rights. The judge may ask you questions about your employment, living arrangements, and criminal history to better understand your standing in the community. You are not expected to enter a plea at this time. Instead, the purpose of the bond hearing is to determine if bail should be set (an amount that the defendant must pay to be released before trial).
When determining whether bail will be set, a judge will consider whether the defendant poses a risk to the community and is likely to appear in court. If bail is granted, the judge will set the amount payable to the court. If you cannot afford bail, a bondsman can pay on your behalf, allowing you to be released. However, they typically charge a 10% fee and, in some cases, may require collateral (such as your house or car).
Understand the Charges Against You
If you are confused about any charges that were mentioned at your bond hearing, you should ask your attorney. A criminal defense lawyer can explain the specifics of the charges, explaining them in layman’s terms, and potential penalties if you are found guilty.
At this time, your attorney may discuss possible defense strategies as well as what to expect as your case progresses. The value of this legal guidance can mean the difference between incarceration and eligibility for alternative sentencing.
Reach Out to Our Greenville, SC, Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a criminal offense, our legal team is here to help. We work tirelessly to help each of our clients build a vibrant, fulfilling future. Preserving your freedom is our top priority, no matter what path we must take to achieve it.
At Eppes & Plumblee, you are not just one client among many; you are someone who matters to us personally. If you are interested in discussing your case with one of our Greenville, SC, criminal defense lawyers, contact us online or call (864) 581-3450.