What to Do If You’re Arrested in Indiana: 5 Critical Steps
Introduction: Know Your Rights After an Arrest
Getting arrested in Indiana can be overwhelming and stressful. Whether you're facing misdemeanor or felony charges, how you respond in the first few hours after your arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Knowing your legal rights and following the right steps can help protect your freedom and build a strong defense.
📞 If you or a loved one has been arrested, contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation immediately.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Remain Silent
After an arrest, anything you say can be used against you in court. Indiana police officers are trained to ask questions in a way that could lead to self-incrimination, even if you are innocent.
🚨 What You Should Do:
✔ Stay calm and polite—resisting arrest can lead to additional charges.
✔ Do NOT answer questions beyond giving your name and basic information.
✔ Invoke your right to remain silent by saying: “I am invoking my right to remain silent and want to speak with my attorney.”
🚫 What You Should NOT Do:
❌ Try to argue, explain your situation, or lie to police officers.
❌ Discuss your case with friends, family, or other inmates.
❌ Assume you can "talk your way out" of an arrest—this rarely works.
➡ Related Read: Learn how to protect your future with legal strategies for winning a criminal case.
Step 2: Do NOT Consent to a Search Without a Warrant
In many arrests, police will try to search your car, home, or belongings. Do not give permission for a search unless they have a warrant.
🚨 Your Rights Under the Fourth Amendment:
✔ If the police ask to search your car or home, you have the right to say “I do not consent to a search.”
✔ If the police have a valid search warrant, you must comply—but you are not required to assist them.
📌 TIP: If police search without a warrant, your attorney may be able to challenge the evidence in court.
➡ Related Read: Learn more about fighting evidence in a criminal case.
Step 3: Ask for an Attorney Immediately
🚨 DO NOT answer questions without a lawyer. Even if you think you can explain yourself, it’s best to have legal representation first.
✔ Say clearly: “I want to speak to an attorney.”
✔ Do not waive your rights or agree to “just talk” with detectives.
✔ Wait until your attorney arrives before saying anything about your case.
📌 TIP: The sooner you call a criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of avoiding harsh penalties.
📞 If you’ve been arrested, contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation immediately.
Step 4: Know the Bail Process and Bond Options
In Indiana, after an arrest, you may be eligible for bail, which allows you to be released while waiting for trial.
Types of Bail in Indiana:
✔ Cash Bond – You pay the full amount to the court and get it back if you appear for all hearings.
✔ Surety Bond – You pay 10% of the bail amount to a bondsman, but you don’t get it back.
✔ Own Recognizance (OR) Release – Some individuals may not need to pay bail and are released on their promise to appear in court.
Step 5: Prepare for Your Court Date and Avoid More Trouble
If you are released after arrest, it’s important to follow all court instructions to avoid additional charges.
What You Should Do:
✔ Attend all scheduled court hearings—missing one can lead to a bench warrant.
✔ Follow any release conditions (no alcohol, drug testing, travel restrictions, etc.).
✔ Avoid speaking about your case on social media or with anyone other than your attorney.
🚨 What Happens If You Miss Court?
Failing to appear in court can lead to a bench warrant for your arrest and additional charges.
➡ Related Read: Learn how to handle a failure to appear warrant.
What NOT to Do After an Arrest
❌ Do NOT talk about your case with police, family, or friends.
❌ Do NOT contact the victim or witnesses.
❌ Do NOT post anything about your case on social media.
❌ Do NOT skip court dates or ignore legal documents.
➡ Related Read: Learn how to choose the best criminal defense attorney for your case.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney
🚨 A criminal conviction can lead to:
✔ Jail or prison time
✔ Fines and court fees
✔ A permanent criminal record
✔ Job and housing restrictions
A skilled criminal defense attorney can:
✔ Defend you against charges and protect your rights.
✔ Negotiate a plea deal or reduced charges if necessary.
✔ Work to get your case dismissed or penalties reduced.
📞 If you’ve been arrested, don’t wait. Call Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Your Future
If you’ve been arrested in Indiana, following these 5 critical steps can help protect your rights, freedom, and future:
✔ Remain silent and avoid self-incrimination.
✔ Do not consent to a search without a warrant.
✔ Request an attorney immediately.
✔ Understand the bail process and bond options.
✔ Attend all court hearings and follow legal instructions.
📞 Need legal help? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
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