Exercising Your Rights After an Arrest

 Posted on July 14, 2025 in Criminal Defense

Getting arrested for a criminal offense can be a disorienting experience. From the moment of your detainment, you may feel increasing pressure and stress. You might even feel powerless. However, you still have rights that you can and should exercise. Whatever charges you face, the best thing you can do is to get in contact with a Denton County, TX criminal defense lawyer. 

At Magaña & Van Dyke, we have years of experience handling serious misdemeanor and felony charges on behalf of our clients. Our firm can inform you of your rights and stand up for you throughout your case, making sure you are fairly represented.

Knowing Your Miranda Rights

The Fifth Amendment protects you from self-incrimination. This means that you have a right to remain silent while in police custody. Whether you are in the back of a police car or inside an interrogation room, saying nothing is one of the best ways to protect yourself.

While it may seem tempting to speak in your own defense, oftentimes, the risk greatly outweighs the potential benefits. Your verbal statements could be used as evidence against you in court, even if you think you are helping your case by explaining yourself. With this in mind, "pleading the Fifth" is a sound strategy.

Your Right to Legal Counsel

After you have been arrested, you have a right to an attorney. This is crucial, as a legal professional can provide you with the advice and representation you need to fight the charges against you. You are also entitled to speak with an attorney in private, and have your attorney present during questioning.

At Magaña & Van Dyke, we have a deep understanding of the legal procedures that take place after an arrest. We can provide you with qualified counsel for your situation, helping you come up with a strategy for your defense. Ideally, you should get in contact with a defense lawyer as soon as possible after questioning.

What Can I Do if My Rights Were Violated?

If you suspect that your rights were violated at any point during your criminal case, let your attorney know as soon as possible. For example, if the police did not read you your Miranda rights before an interrogation, the evidence could be deemed inadmissible in court. In another example, if you were subject to an illegal search in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights, anything procured from the search could be suppressed in court.

Our criminal defense attorneys are keenly aware of your rights. We will fiercely advocate for you in court, bringing any injustices to the court’s attention. 

Meet With a Cooke County, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer

Citizens who do not know their rights risk having them violated. At Magaña & Van Dyke, we can help you protect your best interests after an arrest, working diligently on your behalf. With decades of real experience and proven case results to show for it, you can trust that your case is in good hands with us. Call one of our Denton County, TX criminal law attorneys to schedule a free consultation today.