Being arrested can be daunting, especially when you’re unsure of what steps to take and how your charges can impact your future. The actions you take after being arrested can impact your charges, making it crucial that you know what to do if you are arrested in Shelby, North Carolina. Refusing to cooperate, lying to law enforcement, or taking adverse actions during your initial arrest can heighten your charges and make your case more difficult.

Luckily, the team at The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., is here to guide you through the process. Our team of defense attorneys shares over 60 years of experience, allowing us to successfully navigate the most complex of cases. If you or a loved one were arrested in Shelby, North Carolina, do not wait to contact our firm to learn more about what steps you should take moving forward.

What Happens When You Are Arrested in Shelby, North Carolina?

Being arrested in Shelby can have devastating repercussions on your future. If your charges result in a criminal conviction, you may face severe penalties, including heavy fines and jail sentences that limit your freedom. A criminal charge can impact your personal and professional life, too, which can close the door on opportunities like professional certifications, continued education, and housing choices.

When you are arrested in Shelby, you will be informed of the cause of your arrest and then taken to a county jail or police station for booking. During booking, the following actions will be performed:

• Your basic personal information, such as your name and address, will be documented.
• Your charges will be detailed and documented.
• You will be fingerprinted and photographed.
• A search and inventory of your belongings will occur.
• A background check will be performed.

You may also be questioned, in which case you can invoke your right to remain silent and request a lawyer. Even if you are innocent or the police make a question seem casual or well-meaning, they can use anything you say against you. Waiting until a lawyer is present is the way to protect yourself during booking and in future conversations with law enforcement.

After booking, you remain in custody until a judge can determine your release conditions. North Carolina law requires you to be taken in front of a judge within 48 hours of the arrest. During this step, a judge can evaluate your case and determine release conditions, such as through a bond, house arrest, or a written promise to appear in court.

What to Do When You’re Arrested in Shelby, North Carolina

There are over 150 arrests a month in Cleveland County for a variety of offenses, from driving under the influence to aggravated assault. For violent crimes, Cleveland County’s rate is 359 violent crimes per 100,000 people, which is higher than the statewide average.

Being arrested can leave you feeling powerless. However, it’s crucial that you stay level-headed and do not do anything that could worsen your charges. Despite how challenging an arrest can be, there are things you can do to defend yourself against additional charges and safeguard your rights. If you are arrested in Shelby, you can:

• Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer: You are entitled to a lawyer when communicating with law enforcement, so be sure to announce your wish to retain a criminal defense attorney before being interviewed about what occurred.
• Remain Calm and Comply With Police Officers: While it can be difficult to remain respectful when arrested, resisting or attempting to evade the police can result in additional charges.
• Avoid Consenting to Searches: If police officers ask for your consent to search you or your property without a warrant, say no. Allowing the police to search can lead them to incriminating evidence and jeopardize your case.
• Document the Details: Writing down information from your arrest can be useful during a criminal defense case. Document the time and location, any witnesses, and the name and badge number of police officers who were involved.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in North Carolina

If you are arrested in Shelby, North Carolina, you should contact a lawyer immediately. A lawyer’s knowledge of local criminal defense laws and the arrest process can help you navigate an arrest and prepare to negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges in court. During an arrest, a lawyer can help you by:

• Preventing self-incrimination
• Preventing unnecessary searches and seizures
• Preventing police misconduct
• Gathering evidence, such as witnesses or police reports
• Negotiating for reduced bail or a release on personal recognizance
• Developing a defense strategy for your case

FAQs About Arrests in Shelby, North Carolina

Can You Refuse to Show Your ID to the Police in North Carolina?

If you are driving and are stopped by a police officer, you are required to show them your driver’s license upon their request. Refusing results in a misdemeanor and could lead to other charges as well. If you are not driving, you may not be required to show your ID, but you could potentially be charged with resisting, delaying, or obstructing a police officer. Thus, it is always smart to show your ID to a police officer if asked.

Does an Officer Need to Have Proof of a Crime to Arrest You in North Carolina?

While an officer does not need concrete proof to arrest you, they do need to have probable cause. To establish probable cause, they must use specific facts or reliable information that lead them to believe a crime was committed by you. Some ways officers can establish probable cause are through witness and victim statements, physical evidence of illegal items in your possession, having seen a crime occur, or reliable tips.

Will My Arrest Be Visible on a Background Check in North Carolina?

Yes, arrests are visible on background checks in North Carolina. While an arrest doesn’t lead to as many penalties as a conviction, it can still leave a negative mark on your record. An arrest can be visible regardless of whether you were found not guilty or the charges were dismissed. In some cases, you may be eligible to expunge an arrest from your record. Otherwise, it can be on your record indefinitely.

What Is the Difference Between a Secured and an Unsecured Bond in North Carolina?

Secured and unsecured bonds in North Carolina are both types of bonds that allow you to leave jail and are designed to incentivize you to appear in court. A secured bond requires your bond to be posted and paid before leaving jail. An unsecured bond means that your bond doesn’t have to be posted before leaving jail, but requires you to promise, in writing, to appear in court. Otherwise, you have to pay.

If You Have Been Arrested, The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., Can Help

Being arrested in North Carolina can leave you confused, overwhelmed, and worried about this legal process or the potential consequences of a criminal charge. An experienced Shelby criminal defense attorney from our firm can guide you throughout this process to prepare to defend you in court. Contact The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., to learn how skilled legal representation can minimize the consequences of an arrest.