Getting arrested can be an overwhelming event in anyone’s life. But if you are arrested and don’t know what steps to take, know that the criminal defense attorneys at Combs Waterkotte are on your side and here to help you protect your rights. For a free legal consultation, you can contact our team online or schedule an appointment at (314) 900-HELP.
Table of Contents
- What Does Being Arrested Mean?
- Top Reasons You Might Be Arrested in Missouri
- What to Do After an Arrest
- Why Combs Waterkotte?
Our criminal defense attorneys serve the Greater St. Louis area, Missouri, and Kansas City.
What Does Being Arrested Mean?
In Missouri, an arrest means law enforcement has probable cause to believe you’ve committed a crime. You’re no longer free to leave, you may be handcuffed, and you’re usually transported for booking. Arrests can happen on the street, in your home, during traffic stops, or while being questioned. An arrest starts the criminal process and can quickly lead to formal charges being filed against you.
If you’ve been arrested, the steps you take next matter:
- Stay calm and do not resist arrest or interfere with the investigation.
- Do not answer questions without a lawyer present.
- Politely decline consent to any searches and seizures.
- Document everything about the arrest as soon as possible.
- Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Every situation is different, but following these steps can help protect your rights, avoid additional charges, and give your attorney a stronger starting point to fight your case.
If you’ve been arrested in Missouri or Kansas City, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (314) 900-HELP for legal advice or contact us online.
Top Reasons You Might Be Arrested in Missouri
In Missouri, people get arrested for many different reasons — some serious (felonies), some minor (misdemeanors). Traffic stops often lead to arrests for DWI, drug possession, or outstanding warrants. Other arrests happen after domestic disputes, probation violations, or criminal investigations. Whether you’re facing felony charges, misdemeanor accusations, or even an arrest based on a misunderstanding, it’s critical to know your rights and take the right steps immediately.
A few of the most common reasons for being arrested include:
- Driving While Intoxicated (DWI/DUI)
- Drug Possession or Drug Paraphernalia
- Outstanding Warrants
- Assault or Domestic Violence
- Theft, Burglary, or Property Crimes
- Weapons Charges
- Probation Violations
- Resisting Arrest or Interfering with Law Enforcement
- Failure to Appear (Bench Warrants)
- Felony Traffic Offenses (such as leaving the scene of an accident)
- Public Intoxication or Disorderly Conduct
- Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License
- Child Endangerment or Neglect
- White Collar Crimes (Fraud, Embezzlement, Identity Theft)
- Sex Crimes or Registration Violations
No matter what charges you’re facing, the steps you take immediately after an arrest can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of protecting your future.
What to Do After an Arrest
If you’ve been arrested, every decision you make matters. Following protocol can give your attorney options for fighting your case down the line.
Below, we’ve broken down the most important steps to protect yourself after an arrest:
1. Stay Calm and Do Not Resist
Even if you believe the arrest is unfair or based on a misunderstanding, do not argue, run, or physically resist. Resisting arrest can lead to additional charges that may complicate your case and make it harder to negotiate later. Stay calm, follow lawful instructions, and let your attorney challenge any unlawful conduct after the fact. Staying composed during the arrest often preserves important defenses down the road.
2. Do Not Answer Questions Without an Attorney
After an arrest, law enforcement may try to question you — sometimes casually, sometimes aggressively. You are under no obligation to answer any questions beyond basic identifying information. Politely state that you wish to remain silent and want to speak with an attorney before answering anything else (Fifth Amendment). Anything you say can be used against you later, and even small statements can unintentionally damage your case. Protect yourself by staying quiet (and calm) until your lawyer is present.
3. Politely Decline Any Searches
In most cases, police cannot search your person, vehicle, home, or property without either your consent, a valid warrant, or probable cause. Politely state: “I do not consent to any searches.” You have the constitutional right to refuse under the Fourth Amendment.
You won’t help anything by resisting even if you believe the search is illegal and against your rights.
4. Document Everything About the Arrest
Details matter. As soon as possible after your arrest, write down everything you can remember. The more information you collect, the better your attorney can analyze the situation and build a defense. Focus on:
- Time, date, and exact location of the arrest
- Names and badge numbers of officers involved
- What was said — both by you and by law enforcement
- Who witnessed the arrest (names and contact info)
- Any injuries, use of force, or damage to property
- Whether any searches were conducted, and if you consented
- Any video footage or audio recordings available
Capturing these details (however small) early can make a big difference as your case moves forward.
5. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
The sooner you speak with a defense attorney, the sooner you can start protecting your rights. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, handle police or prosecutor communication, and start building your defense from the very beginning. Early legal guidance may also impact issues like bail, formal charges, evidence preservation, and plea negotiations.
Why Combs Waterkotte?
When should you hire a lawyer? Now. Whether you’ve been arrested or are dealing with another alleged crime, your defense attorney can make the difference between serious fines, jail time, and a whole list of other problems. Read more about how we’ve helped others on our reviews and testimonials page. Contact Combs Waterkotte as soon as possible and give us a call at (314) 900-HELP to schedule a free legal consultation.
