Emergency Instructions: If You or a Family Member Has Been Arrested Here Are 9 Smart Things You Should Do Right Now

SMART STEP #1: DO NOT SAY ANYTHING about the incident that lead to the arrest. By this, I mean say Nothing -- Zero -- Nada -- to the police, emergency medical personal, firefighters or anyone else -- include a relative or friend -- about the incident leading to the arrest. Even statements you make to your spouse can be used against you in some circumstances. Speak to no one. This means at the moment of arrest, in the patrol car on the way to booking, and in the interrogation room.

SMART STEP #2: If you are held in custody in the jail -- DO NOT DISCUSS your situation with other inmates! Any inmate could turn out to be a “jailhouse snitch,” so do not talk to them about your arrest or anything else.

SMART STEP #3: Immediately invoke your right to an attorney -- and do NOT talk to the police. If the police want identification information, direct them to your wallet but do NOT answer any questions about the circumstances surrounding your arrest, no matter what the cops may threaten to do.

SMART STEP #4: Call ME immediately! Waiting to call an attorney “later” is like standing on the shore, waiting to see if a hurricane is going to touch down. Every minute that passes works against you. CALL ME NOW and I’ll work hard to make this problem go away.

SMART STEP #5: Be courteous to the police and do not resist arrest. Do not swear at them or be verbally abusive.

SMART STEP #6: Do not try to conceal, modify or have any relative or friend touch, what might be physical evidence.

SMART STEP #7: Do not try to run from the police. You will eventually be caught, and running, even if you’re innocent, will be used against you later as evidence of a guilty mind.

SMART STEP #8: Never consent to any search or entry into your home or onto your property. AGAIN: Do not give anyone permission to search or enter into your home or onto your property.

SMART STEP #9: Review #1, above.