Step 1: Stay Calm and Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say to police, even casual conversation, can be used against you in court. Do not try to explain yourself or answer questions beyond providing basic identifying information. Be polite with officers, but clearly state that you want to speak with a criminal defense attorney before answering anything.
This applies whether you are arrested by a La Porte city officer, a La Porte County Sheriff's deputy, or any other local law enforcement agency.
Step 2: Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Right Away
A criminal defense attorney can advise you before you speak with detectives, help you understand the charges, and begin building a defense strategy early. Do not wait until after your arraignment to find a lawyer. The time between your arrest and your first court appearance is when important decisions are made.
If you cannot reach a private attorney, you have the right to request a public defender. However, securing your own representation early often means more personalized attention to your situation. An experienced criminal defense attorney serving La Porte, IN, and surrounding La Porte County communities can make a meaningful difference in how your case unfolds.
Step 3: Understand What Happens After Your Arrest in La Porte County
Booking and Holding
After your arrest, you will be taken to the La Porte County Jail at 809 State Street for booking, which includes fingerprinting, photographs, and a review of your identifying information.
Initial Hearing and Arraignment
Your initial hearing generally occurs within 48 to 72 hours of your arrest, excluding weekends and holidays. A judge will inform you of the formal charges, advise you of your constitutional rights, and address bail. Cases in La Porte County are heard through the La Porte Circuit Court and La Porte Superior Courts depending on the nature and location of the alleged offense.
Bail and Pretrial Release
The judge will determine whether to grant bail based on factors including the severity of the charges, your criminal history, flight risk, and ties to the community. La Porte County's Pretrial Services Program may also conduct a risk assessment. If bail is posted, you may be released pending trial, sometimes with conditions such as check-ins, travel restrictions, or electronic monitoring.
Step 4: Preserve Evidence and Document Everything
Evidence can disappear quickly after an arrest. As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the events leading to your arrest, including locations, times, and witness names. Save any relevant text messages, photos, or videos. Ask family or friends to identify and contact any witnesses. Avoid discussing your case on social media or with anyone other than your attorney.
Step 5: Know What Not to Do
Mistakes made right after an arrest can significantly hurt your case. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present, contact the alleged victim, miss any court dates, violate any of the pretrial release conditions described above, or post about your arrest on social media. Do not assume minor charges will go away without proper legal representation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Arrests in La Porte County
