Being arrested for drug possession or drug trafficking in St. Louis can be a terrifying experience. Drug laws in Missouri are among the most stringent in the country and a conviction can have serious, life-long consequences.
In this post, we will take a look at the steps you need to take after getting arrested for a drug-related crime and the importance of being represented by an experienced St. Louis defense attorney.
Remain Calm
Getting arrested for a drug crime can be a panic-inducing situation, but it is important to rein in your emotions and remain as composed as you can. Any emotional outburst or resistance on your part can escalate the situation and you could be charged with resisting arrest or obstruction of justice. So, stay calm and let the cops do their duty.
Do Not Say Anything
As any competent St. Louis defense attorney can tell you, it is not possible for you to talk your way out of an arrest. Moreover, anything you say – no matter how innocuous you think it is – can be used against you by the prosecution. You can respond if they ask you for your name, age, and other identifying information. Other than that, do not say a word to the cops.
Remember – you are not obligated – legally or otherwise – to answer the cop’s questions. Your right to remain silent is inalienable and guaranteed under the 5th amendment. So, just tell them that you will answer their questions only in the presence of a St. Louis defense attorney.
Do Not Sign Anything
This is an extension of the previous rule. Just like anything you say can be used against you, anything you sign can also be used by the prosecution to strengthen the charges against you. So, do not sign anything until you consult a St. Louis defense attorney.
Call a Lawyer
This is undoubtedly the most important step you need to take if you have been arrested for drug possession or trafficking in St. Louis, Missouri. Do not – under any circumstances – accept a plea bargain – no matter how favorable it seems to you. Contact a St. Louis drug defense attorney or ask your family and friends to find an experienced criminal defense attorney for you.
The attorney can look into your case, review the evidence, and formulate a strategy to defend you against the charges of drug possession or trafficking. If the evidence against you is insufficient or legally inadmissible, your attorney might be able to have the charges against you dismissed.
Your attorney might also be able to negotiate with the prosecution and reduce the charges against you. Simply put, having a skilled drug defense attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of achieving the best possible outcome in your case.
Looking For an Experienced St. Louis Defense Attorney
At Miller & Hine, we are committed to providing the best possible legal representation for those who are accused of drug crimes. Over the years, we have represented scores of Missourians accused of drug related crimes and managed to get the charges against them dismissed or reduced to a significant extent.
We offer a free one-hour consultation for those who are accused of drug crimes – or any other charges for that matter. We can review your case over the phone or meet you in person – even if you are in jail. Contact us today at (314) 413-2053 or contact us online to find out how we can help you.