What Are Your Rights When You Are Arrested and Accused of a Crime?
When you are arrested and accused of a crime in Arizona, you are entitled to certain fundamental rights. Understanding those rights will ensure you can protect yourself and defend yourself against charges or accusations. The best thing you can do if you are arrested is to hire an experienced lawyer. Janet Altschuler is a talented criminal defense attorney in Tucson, AZ who can help you navigate the legal process, understand the charges against you, and try to get your charges lessened or dropped. Keep reading to learn more about what your rights are in Arizona when you are accused of a crime, and then call Janet Altschuler to schedule a consultation for representation.
Miranda Rights
Everyone in the United States who is arrested for a crime is entitled to their Miranda rights. These rights must be read to them at the time of arrest. This is called your Miranda Warning. These rights ensure your right to due process and outline your fundamental protections under the law. Your Miranda rights include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to court-appointed counsel if you cannot afford to hire a private attorney.
Right to Know the Reason for Your Arrest
You have the right to know the reason for your arrest, the charges against you, and the details related to the crime for which you are accused. You also have the right to know who is accusing you of this crime.
Right to Refuse Consent
You have the right to refuse consent to a search of yourself, your vehicle or home, and your belongings. However, when you are arrested, an officer may pat you down to search you for a weapon. Police may also perform a search if they have a warrant, or if they have probable cause to think a crime is taking place, such as spotting drug paraphernalia out in the open.
If you are ever pulled over at a traffic stop, DO NOT give police permission to search your vehicle without a warrant. Additionally, you do not have to invite police to enter your home unless they have a warrant.
Right to Due Process
You have the right to due process under the law and you can’t be prosecuted if the police department and county attorney’s office or prosecutor’s office do not go through the proper steps.
Right to Not Pay Excessive Fines
You have the right not to have to pay excessive fines or bail.
Right to a Fair and Speedy Trial
You have the right to a fair trial that is speedy and public. If you have a jury trial, you have the right to an impartial jury selected from your community.
If you have been charged with a crime in Arizona, you must hire an experienced criminal lawyer in Tucson, AZ. Call Janet Altschuler today at 520-247-1789 or 520-200-5003 to schedule a free consultation, or contact us online.