If you get arrested in Minnesota, there are certain things you should do… and others that you’re really better off avoiding. We’ll cover both types in this post.
What You Should Do If You Are Arrested in Minnesota
Make sure to follow these guidelines to protect yourself if you get arrested in Minnesota.
Be compliant and polite. Your cooperation at the time of arrest can keep you from facing further charges.
Keep your hands visible so the officer does not think that you are reaching for a weapon.
Ask for an attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney will protect you from saying things that may incriminate you. Clearly request that you be allowed to speak with your lawyer and explain that you will remain silent on other matters until they are present.
Provide only the most basic information that is relevant to the details at hand. For example, if you need to phone a family member who can send an attorney to you, give only basic details to the police.
If possible, make bond arrangements at the jail to avoid having to stay there. Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer as soon as possible, because you don’t want to create delays in your case. Plan to have an attorney well before your first court appearance to make the best impression on the judge and start building a solid defense to your charges.
If you think that your rights may have been violated during your arrest, speak with your attorney. The sooner you let your lawyer know, the better chance you have of getting your charges reduced or dropped.
In the event that you want to admit guilt, also do that with the help of an attorney who can point to a track record of success in dealing with criminal matters. They will know the best way to do that without getting into more legal trouble.
What You Shouldn’t Do If You Are Arrested in Minnesota
What about things to avoid if you get arrested?
Don’t get talky with any law enforcement agents. You have the right to remain silent and you need to exercise that right to protect yourself.
Don’t falsify your name. Give the basic – but accurate – details about yourself to avoid further charges.
Don’t put on an attitude with the arresting officer. Stay calm and you’ll be less likely to face issues from the cops.
Don’t physically resist an officer’s search at the scene of the incident. The officer has a right to search you without a warrant to make sure nothing is threatening his or her safety. It’s within your rights to verbally resist, but you can get yourself into greater trouble if you offer physical resistance. Remember that the officer has a weapon and combat training, and could use them against you if you physically resist.
Do not comment on an item that the police recover during the search that may incriminate you. Any attempts to explain its presence could get you charged with additional crimes.
Don’t confess guilt to a fellow inmate in the jail or to anyone you speak to on the phone, including your parents or your spouse. Anything you say while in jail can and will be held against you in court.
Ultimately, it comes down to using common sense and good manners. Remember, you’re in a precarious situation. Your first goal should be to do nothing to make it worse. That means playing nice while doing as little as possible, and starting to work with a knowledgeable Minnesota defense attorney at your earliest possible convenience.
About the Author:
Christopher Keyser is a Minneapolis-based criminal and DWI defense attorney known for fighting aggressively for his clients and utilizing innovative tactics to get the most positive results. He has been featured in numerous media outlets due to the breadth and depth of his knowledge, and recognized as a Minnesota Super Lawyers Rising Star (2014–2015), a Top 100 Trial Lawyer (2013–2015), and a Top 40 Under 40 Attorney (2013–2015).
