What Should You Do If the Police Arrest You?

Stay calm and do not resist

Even if you believe the arrest is unlawful, do not resist physically. Remember the officer’s identity, time of arrest and reason given. The reason must be communicated in a way you can understand.

Use your rights to a lawyer and to silence

State clearly that you want to consult a lawyer promptly and in confidence. Declining to give a detailed statement or make self-incriminating remarks before advice is a basic safeguard. Giving identity details is not the same as answering questions about the incident.

Read before signing

• Read every statement and document, or ask for it to be read to you.
• Do not sign a document in a language you do not understand; request an interpreter.
• Ask for errors or omissions to be corrected.
• Do not sign blank pages or documents that could be completed later.
• Request a copy of anything you sign where possible.

Appearance before a judge

Apart from necessary travel time, the Constitution requires appearance before a judge within 24 hours. If the police seek more time, they must explain the investigative grounds; a lawyer may oppose the request and propose less restrictive conditions.

Health and notification

Report medication needs, illness, injury or ill-treatment immediately and request medical examination. Ask for a relative to be informed as permitted by law. After release, record the sequence of events, names and times promptly.