06 Mar What to Do If You Get Arrested in Arizona
If you get arrested in Arizona, it is important to understand how to act. The things you say and do during an arrest can have a major impact on your case. The police will do their best to incriminate you, so you’ll have to be on your guard. Here’s what happens during an arrest and why the best thing you can do is ask to speak with a lawyer.
First of All, Don’t Panic
If an officer is detaining you, take a deep breath and try to stay calm.
- Keep your hands visible
- Don’t make any sudden movements
- Comply with the officer’s instructions
Keeping your cool is important for several reasons:
- It de-escalates the situation and reduces the chances of physical harm.
- You will be able to accurately and credibly recount the event later on.
- It helps you avoid additional charges like resisting arrest.
Don’t Say Anything
In Arizona, you must identify yourself if the police ask you to. But other than that, you do not have to answer any of their questions. The correct answer to every other question they ask is:
“I want to speak with my lawyer.”
The police will try to get you to say something incriminating. The best thing you can possibly do is to invoke your right to remain silent. You do not have to answer any questions or sign any documents without a lawyer present.
Contact a Lawyer
If you have been arrested, you should use your one phone call to ensure you have legal representation. If you do not have the name or number of a certified criminal attorney, then you need to contact a family member or friend who can get one for you. It is important to note that any phone calls you make are being recorded and may be reviewed by law enforcement, the prosecution, and the judge.
Remember, They Can Hold You for 24 Hours
Getting arrested is no walk in the park. And arrests are not pleasant. Regardless if you turned yourself in, were arrested at the scene of a crime, or were detained for outstanding warrants, the process once in custody is the same.
- You may be asked to empty your pockets and/or surrender any bags, and the contents may be searched.
- They will take your fingerprints and photo.
- You will be strip-searched to ensure you are not hiding any contraband or weapons.
- They will hold all of your personal items and remove items like shoelaces that could be used as weapons.
- While everything is happening, they may still be asking you questions or even bring you into a room for questioning again. Remember your phrase: “I would like to speak with a lawyer.”
- You are allowed one phone call to secure counsel. While the process varies by jurisdiction, it is typically allowed after booking (fingerprinting and pictures). However, you may need to request it.
- You should be allowed to meet with counsel before you enter your plea to the courts. However, it might be right before you are to see the judge.
- You can be held for up to 24 hours before you must enter a plea in court.
- The judge will decide if you may be released, have to pay bail, or stay in jail until your next court date.
Certified Criminal Defense Attorneys in Chandler, Arizona
Here at Coolidge Law, we have over 25 years of experience defending criminal cases in the Arizona courts. We’re here to make sure your rights are not trampled during an arrest and to ensure that you get fair treatment.
If you are ever wrongfully arrested or someone you know needs a lawyer, we can help. Keep our number handy, just in case.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (3/5/2026).Photo by Stephen Harlan on Unsplash
Todd Coolidge graduated magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He attended Arizona State University College of Law and has been practicing law exclusively as a criminal defense attorney since graduating in 1990. He has over 25 years of experience and is certified as a Criminal Law Specialist through the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization.