Tips to Stay Calm During an Arrest

Tips to Stay Calm During an Arrest

Getting arrested is one of the most stressful events a person can encounter. When you’re being accused of a crime, you may shake, sweat and have shortness of breath. While it might seem impossible at a time like this, it’s important to stay calm. Keeping your composure can help you have more control of the situation and avoid making mistakes that could get you into more trouble.

Here are some tips to stay calm during an arrest:

Remain Still

While getting arrested might make you feel jumpy, you should avoid making any sudden movements. The arresting officer might think that you’re trying to run away or reach for a weapon, forcing him or her to take drastic measures. Moving too suddenly can also raise your heart rate, making you more stressed. Try to stay as still as possible.

Breathe Deeply

If you’re feeling high amounts of anxiety while being arrested, one of the best things to do is take deep breaths. They can slow down your heart rate and help you feel calmer. Slowly breathe in and then breathe out several times.

Cooperate With the Police

If you’re being arrested for a crime you believe you’re innocent of, it can definitely be frustrating. You might want to yell and convince the police that they’ve arrested the wrong person. However, doing this can make your situation worse. If you try to resist arrest, they could bring even more charges against you. It’s best to be polite and listen to the orders that are given to you.

Recognize That You Have the Right to Remain Silent

Some people who get arrested panic and tell the police everything. In the midst of all the stress, they forget that they have the right to remain silent. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to talk to the police about your case. In fact, it’s best that you don’t. They can use what you say later in court. Once you understand that you don’t have to tell the police anything to jeopardize your case, you might be calmer.

Contact a Criminal Lawyer

It’s critical to talk to an experienced criminal lawyer in Bloomington, IL soon after getting arrested. He or she can review your case and advise you on the best way to proceed. Once you know that you have a skilled lawyer on your side, you may be less stressed about the situation.

Thanks to Pioletti, Pioletti & Nichols for their insight into criminal law and staying calm during an arrest.