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What to Do If You’ve Been Arrested

Being arrested can be a terrifying experience, whether it’s your first encounter with law enforcement or not. The moments following your arrest are critical, and what you do next can have a lasting impact on your case and your future.

If you or someone you know has been arrested in New York, this guide outlines your rights, the most important steps to take, and how an experienced criminal defense attorney can protect you from harsh penalties.

Step 1: Know Your Rights

You have powerful legal protections under New York law and the U.S. Constitution. Don’t let fear or pressure lead you to waive them.

Your key rights include:

• The right to remain silent. You are not required to answer police questions without a lawyer present.
• The right to an attorney. You have the right to legal representation, and if you can’t afford one, the court must provide one.
• The right to be treated fairly. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Pro Tip: Never talk to law enforcement about your case without a lawyer. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

Step 2: Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

The earlier you involve a criminal defense attorney, the stronger your defense can be.

At Kareem El Nemr Law Office, we act fast to:

• Protect your rights during police questioning
• Investigate the facts and challenge weak evidence
• Negotiate with prosecutors before formal charges are filed
• Work toward reducing or dismissing charges before court proceedings even begin

Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or felony, having a seasoned attorney by your side can be the difference between jail time and freedom.

Step 3: Understand What You’re Being Charged With

New York law categorizes criminal offenses into violations, misdemeanors, and felonies. Each category has different consequences:

• Violations (e.g., disorderly conduct): May result in a fine or short jail time
• Misdemeanors (e.g., petty theft, simple assault): Can carry up to 1 year in jail
• Felonies (e.g., drug trafficking, gun charges, violent crimes): Often involve prison time, heavy fines, and long-term consequences

Our legal team ensures that you fully understand the charges, potential penalties, and the legal options available to you.

Step 4: Stay off Social Media

One of the biggest mistakes people make after an arrest is talking about it online. Prosecutors do monitor social media, and posts even innocent ones, can be twisted and used against you.

 If you’ve been arrested: Stay quiet, stay offline, and speak only to your attorney.

Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing serious felony charges, we’re committed to building a strong defense and fighting for your freedom.