What You Should Know

The first day after an arrest is about protecting your rights, avoiding common mistakes,
and stabilizing your situation. You do not need to prove your innocence in the first
24 hours—but you do need to be careful, deliberate, and informed.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

After an arrest, emotions run high. Law enforcement may ask questions that seem casual
or designed to “clear things up.” You have the right to remain silent,
and you are not required to explain yourself.

Politely stating that you wish to speak with an attorney before answering questions
can help prevent statements from being used against you later.

Step 2: Understand the Charges and the Arrest Paperwork

You should receive paperwork identifying the charges against you,
the court involved, and any initial conditions of release.
Take time to read and preserve these documents.

Important details may include:

• The exact criminal charge(s)
• The scheduled court date
• Bond or release conditions
• Any no-contact or travel restrictions

Step 3: Address Bond and Release Conditions

Shortly after an arrest, a magistrate or judge may set bond.
Bond determines whether you can be released from custody and under what conditions.

Bond conditions may include:

• Secured or unsecured bond
• Custody release
• No-contact orders
• Travel or substance restrictions

Violating bond conditions—even unintentionally—can result in additional charges
or revocation of release.

Step 4: Avoid Contact With Witnesses or Alleged Victims

Many cases involve explicit or implicit no-contact rules.
Reaching out to someone connected to the case can be interpreted as interference
or intimidation, even if your intentions are innocent.

When in doubt, do not make contact without legal guidance.

Step 5: Preserve Evidence and Information

Details fade quickly after an arrest. As soon as possible,
write down what happened while it is fresh in your mind.

Helpful information may include:

• Where you were before the arrest
• Names of potential witnesses
• Timeline of events
• Photos, messages, or call logs

Do not delete anything—even if you think it looks bad.

Step 6: Do Not Discuss the Arrest Publicly

Conversations with friends, coworkers, or on social media
can be misunderstood or later introduced as evidence.
Anything you say outside of privileged attorney communications
can potentially be used against you.

Step 7: Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney Early

Early legal guidance can help you understand your charges,
bond options, and next court steps.
An attorney can also evaluate whether any constitutional issues
are present from the outset.

Burts Law, PLLC serves clients throughout Hickory and Catawba County.
Our office is located just minutes away in Newton at 24 N. Brady Avenue, Newton, NC 28658,
near the square in downtown Newton. That proximity allows us to stay closely connected to the local courts
and respond quickly when timing matters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in the First 24 Hours

• Talking to police without legal guidance
• Contacting someone you are ordered not to contact
• Ignoring paperwork or court dates
• Assuming the case will “work itself out”
• Posting about the arrest online

What Comes After the First 24 Hours?

After the initial period, cases move into formal court proceedings,
including arraignment, discovery, and motion practice.
How well the first 24 hours are handled often affects
how smoothly the case progresses from there.

This article provides general information, not legal advice.
Every case depends on its specific facts.

Criminal Defense Representation for Hickory Arrests

Burts Law, PLLC represents individuals arrested in Hickory and surrounding areas.
We focus on early intervention, clear communication,
and protecting our clients’ rights from the very beginning.

Contact Burts Law, PLLC to discuss your situation
and understand what steps make sense for your case.