You may remain silent
You do not have to answer questions about what happened. Say clearly that you want to remain silent and that you want a lawyer, then stop talking about the case.
Arrested or under investigation · California
A detective called
or you were arrested?
What you say before you speak to a lawyer can shape the whole case. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. An independent criminal defense attorney explains your situation, can speak to the police for you and prepares you for court.
A free, no-obligation first call. Flat fee quoted before any work starts.
Independent California attorneysFlat fee quoted up frontNo obligation
The essentials
What matters when police contact you?
Ask for a lawyer
If you ask for a lawyer during a custodial interrogation, questioning should stop until a lawyer is present. Keep repeating the request if questions continue.
Do not consent to searches
You can say that you do not consent to a search of your car, phone or home. Do not physically resist, even if officers search anyway.
A friendly call is still an interview
A detective who asks you to come in or to tell your side of the story is gathering evidence. Talk to a lawyer before you agree to any interview.
Easy to start
No big leap.
Just a first step.
You tell us what is going on. We find the right attorney for it.
- 01
A few words about your situation.
Choose your topic and leave your contact details. You don’t need a complete file to get started.
- 02
A free first call.
Our intake team gets in touch, clarifies what you need and connects you with an independent attorney licensed in California.
- 03
A flat fee before any work.
The attorney reviews your case and quotes the scope and a fee in writing. You decide whether to go ahead.
For later, not for now
What you can have
ready for the call.
You don’t need to upload anything in the form. These documents can help later:
- Any business card, letter or message from the police or a detective
- Your citation, release papers or bail documents with the court date
- Names of the agency and any case or booking number you were given
This form is not an emergency line. If someone is in custody or has a court date tomorrow, contact the court, the public defender's office or a criminal defense attorney directly now.
You may still be wondering …
Before we
talk.
Should I tell my side of the story to clear things up?
Many people try this and make their situation worse. Statements can be used against you. Talk to a lawyer first; a lawyer can decide with you whether and how to respond.
Can I get a public defender?
If you are charged with a crime that can lead to jail and cannot afford a lawyer, the court can appoint the public defender. You can ask for one at your first court appearance.
What does the first call cost?
The first call is free and without obligation. If you want an attorney to take on your matter, the attorney quotes the scope and fee in writing before any work starts.
What happens after I send my request?
Our intake team reviews your request and gets in touch to clarify it and arrange the call. Sending the form does not create an attorney-client relationship and does not book an appointment.
The first step is free
Let's look at your next step together.
Time for your situation.
Clear, personal and without obligation.