With over 45 years of experience serving the Bronx community, our firm is committed to protecting the rights of individuals who have been wrongfully arrested.
Being wrongfully arrested is a distressing and frustrating experience. A wrongful arrest can seriously affect your personal and professional life.
If you or a loved one has been wrongfully arrested in the Bronx, taking the proper steps to protect your rights and seek justice is crucial.
1. Remain Calm and Comply with Police Orders
Even if you know you are innocent, remaining calm and avoiding any actions that could escalate the situation is vital. Resisting arrest, arguing, or physically engaging with the police can lead to additional charges, making your case more complicated.
2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Politely inform the officers that you are exercising your right to remain silent and would like to speak with an attorney before answering any questions.
3. Request Legal Representation Immediately
You have the right to legal counsel, and contacting an experienced civil rights attorney is crucial as soon as possible. At Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law, we specialize in defending those wrongfully arrested and work tirelessly to protect your constitutional rights.
4. Do Not Consent to Searches
Unless the police have a valid search warrant, you are not obligated to consent to a search of your person, vehicle, or home. Politely but firmly state that you do not consent to a search. This could be a crucial factor in challenging the legality of your arrest later.
5. Take Note of the Arrest Details
Try to remember key details about the arrest, including:
- The names and badge numbers of the arresting officers
- The time and location of the arrest
- The reason given for your arrest
- The behavior and language of law enforcement officers
- The names of any witnesses who may have observed the arrest
If possible, write down these details as soon as possible or ask a trusted friend or family member to document them.
6. Secure Witness Testimonies and Evidence
If there were bystanders who witnessed your arrest, their testimony could be invaluable in proving your wrongful arrest. Additionally, if surveillance footage or other evidence can support your claim, work with your attorney to secure it as soon as possible.
7. Challenge the Arrest in Court
A wrongful arrest can have serious legal consequences, even if you are ultimately found innocent. Your attorney can file a motion to dismiss the charges against you and, if necessary, file a civil lawsuit against the police department for violating your rights.
Seek Compensation for Damages
If you have been wrongfully arrested, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages and job opportunities
- Damage to your reputation
- Legal fees
- Physical harm resulting from police misconduct
Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law have a strong track record of holding law enforcement accountable for wrongful arrests and civil rights violations. Our dedicated attorneys can help you pursue justice and recover damages for the harm you have suffered.
Why Choose Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law?
With over 45 years of experience serving the Bronx community, our firm is committed to protecting the rights of individuals who have been wrongfully arrested. We understand the complexities of civil rights cases and are prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf.
If you or a loved one has been wrongfully arrested in the Bronx, don’t wait. Contact Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law today for a free consultation. Let us help you take the necessary legal steps to clear your name and seek the justice you deserve.