If you get arrested in India, knowing your rights is critical. Learn exactly what to do if you get arrested with this complete legal guide, including 9 vital steps to protect yourself, exercise your rights, stay calm, and handle police custody safely. Empower yourself with the knowledge you need to face any legal situation confidently.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why Knowing What to Do If You Get Arrested Matters
- 9 Steps on What to Do If You Get Arrested
- Step 1: Stay Calm
- Step 2: Ask for Grounds of Arrest
- Step 3: Demand to Inform Someone
- Step 4: Exercise Your Right to Silence
- Step 5: Request Legal Representation
- Step 6: Request a Copy of the Arrest Memo
- Step 7: Insist on a Medical Examination
- Step 8: Do Not Sign Unread Documents
- Step 9: Prepare for Bail
- Your Rights After Arrest
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Conclusion
Introduction
What to Do If You Get Arrested is not something most people think about—until it happens. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, a false allegation, or an actual offence, getting arrested can be overwhelming and frightening. But knowing your rights and the right steps to take can protect your freedom and prevent abuse.
Why Knowing What to Do If You Get Arrested Matters
Arrest is a serious legal event. Without awareness of your rights, you may:
- Incriminate yourself unnecessarily
- Be detained longer than needed
- Face procedural violations that compromise your defense
Learning what to do if you get arrested is essential for everyone, regardless of guilt or innocence.
9 Steps on What to Do If You Get Arrested
Step 1: Stay Calm
Panicking can worsen the situation. Take deep breaths and remain polite.
Step 2: Ask for Grounds of Arrest
Under Article 22(1) of the Indian Constitution, you have the right to be informed of the grounds of your arrest immediately.
Step 3: Demand to Inform Someone
You can call a family member, friend, or lawyer. Police must allow you to communicate your whereabouts.
Step 4: Exercise Your Right to Silence
You are not obliged to answer incriminating questions. Politely state you wish to remain silent until your lawyer is present.
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Step 5: Request Legal Representation
You have the right to consult and be defended by a legal practitioner of your choice. Ask for a lawyer immediately.
Step 6: Request a Copy of the Arrest Memo
Police must prepare a memo of arrest, stating:
- Time and date
- Place of arrest
- Witness signatures
Always ask for a copy.
Step 7: Insist on a Medical Examination
Every arrested person must be examined by a doctor every 48 hours in custody. This protects you against abuse.
Step 8: Do Not Sign Unread Documents
Never sign statements or documents you do not understand or have not read fully.
Step 9: Prepare for Bail
Ask your lawyer to apply for bail as soon as possible. Many offences are bailable, allowing you to be released quickly.
Your Rights After Arrest
Under Indian law, you have these rights:
- Right to be produced before a Magistrate within 24 hours
- Right to legal aid
- Right to be treated humanely
- Right to remain silent
- Right to inform someone about your arrest
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Resisting arrest physically
❌ Threatening or bribing police
❌ Signing blank papers
❌ Providing false information
Stay cooperative, but protect your rights.
Conclusion
Being arrested is never easy, but knowing what to do if you get arrested can make all the difference. Stay calm, demand your rights, and consult a lawyer without delay. Empower yourself with knowledge so you can handle any legal challenge confidently.
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