Getting arrested by the North Carolina police can be a painful prospect. However, if you know your constitutional rights and what to expect, the experience can be much more bearable.
Basically, there are two different scenarios that may lead to your arrest in North Carolina. The first one involves a case where a policeman sees you commit a crime or the officer has probable cause to believe you committed a crime.
A typical example is when a traffic police pull you over for swerving to determine whether you are intoxicated, in which case they may arrest you for a DUI.
The second scenario is where a crime was committed, and an investigation leads the police to believe you are the prime suspect.
Either way, you will need a criminal defense attorney to handle your case. Here’s what happens during a Wilmington NC arrest.
What happens when you get arrested in North Carolina
When you get arrested, the police are going to handcuff you. They will take you to the police station and book you into custody. They are also likely to take your fingerprints and compile all your information.
In the event an arrest warrant was not issued, the officer will take you before the magistrate for a probable cause hearing.
Upon hearing your case, the magistrate will decide whether to issue a warrant or to release you on your own recognizance, which means you won’t have to spend time in jail.
But if the magistrate decides to issue a warrant, then he will also decide if the bail bond will be set, and then determine the amount. However, you will be required to show up for the court hearing at the assigned court date.
What to do after a Wilmington NC arrest
If you are arrested, the officer will search you on the scene, at the jail or both. They will seize every evidence relating to the investigation, and may as well confiscate your personal belongings.
If you were not “Mirandized” at the time of arrest, your Miranda rights will be read for you while in custody. Here are the steps to take in the event of a Wilmington NC arrest:
1. Know your Miranda rights
Knowing your Miranda rights can protect you as a citizen and enlighten you on what is expected of you. Here are your rights:
- You have the right to remain silent.
- You have the right to an attorney.
- Right to have an attorney appointed if you cannot afford one.
It’s very important to know and exercise these rights even if the officer doesn’t tell you about them.
Talking could get you into great trouble. Do not talk even to inmates about your case. You could end up incriminating yourself and turn those people into witnesses. Assume all conversations are recorded and remain silent.
Police are trained to extract incriminating information from people by all means, and they could use anyone, including inmates to get certain information from you.
However, you’ll have a right to make a phone call immediately after your arrest. Use this call to hire a lawyer. You can call a lawyer directly if you have one in mind or call a friend or a family member to help you get one.
2. Call a North Carolina experienced lawyer
If you get arrested for a crime in Wilmington NC, the first thing to do should be to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Do not try to represent yourself or make the mistake of thinking you are innocent and that police will let you go.
You have the right to a criminal defense attorney, and you should not hesitate to exercise it.
Conclusion
Getting arrested is a difficult time for both you and your loved ones. Things can even get worse if you’re unable to afford the amount set in the bail schedule.
Fortunately, we’re here for you. Should you ever get arrested in Wilmington NC and are in need of fast and reliable bail bond services, get in touch with us. We offer convenient payment plans to ease your burden and make the process easier for you.
