Criminal Defense Attorney
When a law enforcement officer informs an individual that they are under arrest, a primal biological response tends to take place. Unless the individual under arrest had sincerely anticipated that action, the process of being arrested usually comes as a stressful shock. As a result, the body tends to react by engaging its “fight or flight” mechanism. This is a normal response to fear and stress. Unfortunately, neither fighting with nor fleeing from law enforcement is generally ever a good option.
While it may be tempting to resist arrest, doing so may actually land you in far more trouble than you might otherwise find yourself in. Depending on the circumstances of your resistance, you could end up hurt and/or face formal charges related to resisting arrest. Whether you are innocent or guilty, it is generally a good idea to avoid resisting arrest.
Once you have followed the instructions of the law enforcement officers tasked with taking you into custody, you can then generally avail yourself of your Miranda rights and wait to answer questions until your attorney arrives. At that point, your attorney can begin utilizing legal strategies designed to help ensure that the process you are engaged in is fair. Allowing an attorney to advocate on your behalf is almost always preferable to resisting arrest because this option is generally the most surefire way to safeguard your rights, maintain your physical safety and preserve legal options related to a potentially successful criminal defense.
When Someone Resists Arrest
Resisting arrest is usually treated as a misdemeanor offense. Practically speaking, this means that convicted offenders usually face penalties less severe than a full year’s imprisonment. Nevertheless, consequences related to a resisting arrest offense can be wide-ranging and long-lasting. Steep fines, temporary jail time, time-intensive community service requirements, etc. can impact an individual’s life in significant ways. So, if you have already been charged with resisting arrest, it is important to speak with an attorney about the possibility of mitigating the consequences you may potentially face if convicted.
It is also worth noting that if you have resisted arrest and were harmed in the aftermath, you may be able to pursue a case related to unreasonable force exercised by the arresting officers. The possibility of filing a successful excessive force case will depend on the unique circumstances surrounding your arrest.
Legal Guidance Is Available
If you have questions about the process of being arrested or have recently been arrested, please do not wait to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer offers. Oftentimes, obtaining knowledgeable legal guidance early can make a significant difference to the outcome of a case. A resisting arrest conviction can result in significant legal and practical consequences. So please seek any legal support you may require at this time. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you may be able to work with your attorney to get the charges against you dropped or to mitigate the severity of the situation in any number of ways.