After an arrest, a person is usually booked into a local jail. While some people may be released with a promise to appear, other people may have to pay bail to be released. If a person does not bail out, they must be taken to a magistrate within 48 hours – but this time period may be longer if a person is arrested on Friday night, or on the weekend.

No. You have an absolute right to remain silent and request an attorney. If you request an attorney, the police must stop questioning you.

An arraignment is the first court appearance where charges are read and a plea is entered. Almost always, the plea is “Not Guilty.”

No. A good attorney will work toward the best result, but cannot promise outcomes.

It varies based on the complexity and severity of the case. The location of the court and the experience of the attorney will also be factors that influence the cost. Both, flat fees or hourly rates are common. Attorneys will often work with clients to make payments.

Sealing and expungement are different. Sealing means that all records of arrest and any documents or related information are erased from the criminal history. Expungement means that you are allowed to withdraw your plea and the records will show that you were not convicted. However, the record of arrest will remain. Depending on the nature of the conviction, whether you completed probation, you may be eligible for expungement, sealing, or both. Both require a petition to the court.

You have the right to remain silent, you have the right to request to speak with an attorney, and to be informed of the charges.

You should bring any paperwork that you have. Any papers that you get from law enforcement, the bail bonds company, or jail. You should be prepared to discuss the facts of the case, and any potential witnesses that may be of assistance.

Occasionally, after a person is arrested, if the District Attorney decides to add charges, it may result in a request to increase bail. Having an attorney at an arraignment can assist with preventing an arrest at the arraignment.

If bail is set and you are able to post bail you should be able to get out on the same day. If you cannot post bail, you will be brought to court for an arraignment where you may ask for release or a bail reduction.

Not always. Outcomes vary by case depending upon the seriousness of the offense. Non-jail outcomes may include probation, diversion, or dismissal.

Convictions for felonies or domestic violence often result in permanent loss of gun rights.

Possibly, especially in licensed professions. Your attorney may help minimize impacts.

File for expungement or record sealing, if eligible. Laws vary by state.

Yes, courts can adjust bail or custody status if charges are modified.

The time limit to file charges varies by crime type. Felonies have longer limits, and some crimes, such as homicide, have no statute of limitations.

Once it’s no longer needed as evidence, you can request return. Legal help speeds this up.

Not always, unless required by contract or license terms. Ask an attorney to be sure.