What Happens During an Arrest and Booking?
It is terribly stressful to get arrested, especially if one doesn’t know how it works. Being aware of the processes and happenings around being arrested and booked helps make the legal proceedings you might have afterward easier to tackle. Here‘s what happens to an individual the minute they or someone they care about gets into custody.
How Arrests are Conducted
Generally, an arrest is made when there is probable cause for the police to believe a crime has occurred. This may be because an officer witnessed it under a valid arrest warrant or investigation leading to a suspect. During an arrest, the following steps usually occur:
- Being Taken into Custody – The police officer will inform the suspect that they are under arrest and may place them in handcuffs for safety reasons.
- Miranda Rights – Officers must read the suspect their Miranda rights, which include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything said after these rights are read can be used in court.
- Transportation to Police Station – The suspect is taken to a police station or jail for further processing.
The Booking Process
Once taken to the relevant facility, booking begins. Many different steps comprise this process:
- Record of Personal Information – The suspect’s full name would be recorded along with the date of birth and other identifying information.
- Photograph and Fingerprints – A mugshot is taken, and the suspect’s fingerprints are entered into a database. It can then be used for background checks and matching with evidence from crime scenes.
- Personal Property Inventory – Any personal property, including but not limited to a phone, wallet, or any form of jewelry, is taken away and kept until the suspect is released or transferred.
- Health Screening and Background – Some facilities perform a brief medical screening to identify potential injuries or conditions. Law enforcement can also examine the suspect to determine whether he has outstanding warrants or previous crimes.
- Jailing the Suspect – After being booked, the suspect is taken into a holding cell to await further action, which could take several hours or longer, depending on whether he gets bailed out or waits for an appearance before the court.
What Happens Next?
Following booking, events that follow depend on the nature of the charge. The suspect may:
- Be Bailed Out – Sometimes, the suspect might be entitled to bail and, therefore, can leave custody pending trial.
- Go to an Arraignment – The suspect will see a judge who will read them the charges, and they will plead their case.
- Stay in Jail – If the bail is refused or not paid, he or she can stay in jail until trial.
Why You Need Legal Representation
If you or someone you know has been arrested, it is important to seek legal counsel immediately. A knowledgeable and experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorney will be able to protect your rights, advise you through the process of the law, and construct a solid defense.
For example, having an experienced DUI lawyer in Philadelphia is essential for those facing DUI charges. DUI cases carry severe penalties, including license suspension, fines, and potential jail time. A knowledgeable attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate plea deals, and work to minimize the impact on your life.
Contact an Experienced Attorney Today
The arrest and booking period in court is rather intimidating; you do not have to face it alone. If you need a dedicated legal advocate for your defense, turn to Aggressive Defense today. We will stop at nothing to protect your rights and ensure the zealous defense to which you are entitled. Call or contact us now for a confidential consultation.