What Should I do if I’m arrested in Madison, WI?

rcoad
• March 3, 2025

If you’ve been arrested and are accused of committing a crime you need a good criminal defense attorney. Our advice is to never answer questions from law enforcement without the advice of a defense lawyer. Here are some does and don’ts when arrested or if you are being asked to turn yourself in to the police:

  • DO: Tell the police your name and basic identifying information – that may help you get released.
  • DON’T: Agree to answer any questions (other than your basic identifying information) without the advice of a lawyer. The police may tell you that if you answer their questions you may get released sooner, or they just want to know your side of the story. Don’t tell them your side of the story at that moment.
  • DO: Insist that you will not answer any questions without your lawyer present. In the long run you will be better served by insisting on your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. It is your Constitutional right. Use it. Once you tell the police that you won’t answer questions without your lawyer present – maybe it will take a few times, but that’s okay – they will eventually stop trying to ask you questions. You do NOT have to answer questions from the police. Refusing to answer questions is not a basis to arrest you or hold you.
  • DO: Call a lawyer or your relatives/family to tell them your situation so that someone can post bail for you.
  • IF you are being held for a felony charge you will have to wait until a court appearance to be released.
  • BUT if you are arrested for a misdemeanor offense you CAN bail out after the police process your arrest.
  • DO: be respectful of law enforcement even when you are invoking your Constitutional rights.
  • DON’T be rude or aggressive. It won’t help your situation. You can insist on your right to remain silent calmly and politely.

Call us or have your family member call Coad Law Office to help you out. Rick Coad has been named by Super Lawyers as one of Madison’s best criminal defense lawyers for almost two decades. He will ensure you get your best result Give him a call: (608) 661-8080.