Nobody wants to receive a phone call from a loved one who’s been taken to prison. The very idea is enough to send shivers down your spine. However, knowing what to do at that moment can make a big difference in the outcome. It’s important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to bring about the best possible result. Here, we’ve outlined four things you can do to help a loved one who has just been arrested.
Don’t say too much
When being arrested, individuals are warned that anything said can be used as leverage against them in court. This is important to keep in mind when receiving a call from a loved one who has ended up in prison. There’s a good chance that the phone call is being recorded, making it possible that anything said during the exchange could be used in court. While you can ask about the generalities about why the individual is in custody, it’s a good idea to avoid referencing specifics.
Find out what happened
Once you’ve been made aware of the situation, it’s important to contact your local District Attorney’s office to get more detailed information. This is the time to ask any specific questions you might have about the arrest. Be sure to have a piece of paper and pen ready since you’ll most likely be provided with important dates and other information worth remembering. You might have to come to pick up a car from impound if your loved one was driving one while being arrested.
Get the right help
While everyone is provided with a lawyer under the legal system, it’s advisable to find a specialized professional to fight for your loved one. For example, if the individual was arrested for drinking and driving, then a DUI lawyer is the best option. The specific charge brought against your loved one will determine what kind of legal help is most effective. Look around to make sure you’re dealing with a reputable, experienced, and affordable professional whom you can trust.
Pay the bail
If you have the funds and bail is an option, you can help your loved one get out of prison until court dates are set. There are funding options for bail that are set higher than your budget, but it’s always important to consider the specifics of the loan.
It’s scary to hear about a loved one getting arrested. Taking the right steps can help realize the best outcome for an unfortunate situation. It’s always important to talk with a lawyer to make sure that what you’re doing is truly the best. These professionals know the laws better than anyone and should be consulted in this situation.
