If you’re arrested during a protest in Los Angeles, you need to stay calm, request a local phone call to a lawyer, and stay quiet. You should not say anything or sign any paperwork until your Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer arrives.
Taking the right steps after an arrest at a protest can protect your rights and your future. A lawyer can quickly spring into action, explaining exactly what you should do and providing the support you need in this situation.
What to Do if You’re Arrested at a Protest in Los Angeles
If you’re arrested at a protest in Los Angeles, it’s crucial that you know your protester’s rights and take immediate action to protect yourself. Try to stay calm before and during the arrest process. You should avoid resisting or arguing with the police.
After your arrest, you should:
Ask Why the Police Have Arrested You
The answer the police provide when you ask about the reason for your arrest may help with your charges. After you ask why the police have arrested you, you should not carry on any additional conversation with law enforcement personnel. Do not sign anything or discuss your charges with either police officers or prosecutors.
You can learn more about how to invoke your right to remain silent from your attorney.
Ask for a Lawyer
You have a constitutional right to legal representation. You should request a lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest. You can even make a local phone call directly to a lawyer to get the assistance you need.
Note that if you call your lawyer, the police must give you privacy; they can’t legally listen to the conversation. Your lawyer can provide more information about what to do if you’re arrested during a protest in Los Angeles.
Write Down Everything That Happened
You should create a written record of everything that happened and everything you remember about your arrest. You may also write down information like:
- The officer’s badge number
- The patrol car numbers you saw
- Contact information from any witnesses
You should also take pictures of any injuries you suffer at the hands of the police, if possible.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
What Not to Do if You’re Arrested During a Protest in LA
You should avoid certain actions if the police arrest you at a protest. Many legal professionals recommend that you:
- DO NOT consent to searches of yourself or your belongings
- DO NOT discuss your charges or the protest with police officers
- DO NOT argue or become combative after your arrest
Avoiding these actions can make it easier for your lawyer to protect your rights after an arrest.
What Can the Police Legally Do After an Arrest at an LA Protest?
The police can legally take many actions if they arrest you at a protest in Los Angeles. For example, they can pat you down if they believe you have a weapon. They can also perform a search after your arrest.
They may also, if they have a warrant, either view or confiscate videos and photographs that you took at the protest. However, they cannot legally delete your data. If they exceed the bounds of their authority, they are violating your rights.
Police officers can also legally order you to stop activities that interfere with law enforcement operations.
The Police May Take Illegal Action During Protests
The police do not always adhere to legal guidelines when they respond to a protest in Los Angeles. They may violate your rights by performing searches without a warrant, holding you without cause, or deleting information from your phone.
Do your best to keep a record of any violations of your rights. If you feel unsure about your situation, you can speak to a lawyer about your California rights when dealing with police.
You do not have to accept mistreatment from law enforcement as a consequence of exercising your constitutional rights to free speech and gathering to express your feelings. You can get professional help after an arrest at a protest to push back against unjust and illegal treatment.
Talk to Us if You’re Arrested During a Los Angeles Protest
Are you wondering what to do if you’re arrested during a protest in Los Angeles? One of the first steps you take should be reaching out to our professional team at Simmrin Law Group. Our law firm has decades of combined experience that we can use to protect you and your rights after an unjust arrest.
We know what it takes to assist clients in your situation, and we’re fully prepared to get to work on your defense immediately. We can explain your rights and develop a personalized strategy to assist with your legal needs, so don’t hesitate to contact us for help.
We stay available 24/7, so you can reach out any time for the support you deserve.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form