What to do if you've been arrested.

Do this:

1. Stay calm and stay silent.

   Exercise your right to remain silent. Politely say: 'I want a lawyer. I do not want to answer questions.' Then stop talking.

2. Ask if you're free to go.

   If you are not under arrest, you are free to leave. If you are under arrest, do not resist — but do not consent.

3. Refuse to consent to searches.

   Of your car, your home, your phone. Say clearly: 'I do not consent to a search.' Make them get a warrant.

4. Memorize and write down everything.

   Officers' names and badge numbers. Times. Locations. What was said. Who was present. Do this the moment you can.

5. Call a criminal defense attorney immediately.

   The earlier a lawyer is involved, the better the odds. Evidence disappears. Memories fade. Cases move fast.

Do not do this:

• Talk to police, even to 'explain your side.' That's their job to get you to do.
• Consent to a breath test, blood test, or search without speaking to a lawyer.
• Post about the case on social media. Anything you write can be used against you.
• Contact the alleged victim or witnesses. It can become a new criminal charge.