What to Do in the First 24 Hours After Being Arrested on Criminal Charges

An arrest is a major turning point in anyone's life, especially if you're a first-time offender or facing serious allegations such as domestic violence, homicide, or gun crimes. From the beginning, every decision counts.

This guide lays out exactly what to do if you're arrested in Wisconsin hour by hour through the first 24 hours after your arrest. It's designed for individuals under arrest, their loved ones, professionals, students, and anyone seeking the best criminal defense attorney or a trusted criminal defense lawyer that Wisconsin residents rely on.

Hiring and attorney early on can preserve your rights, protect your reputation, and improve the outcome of any arrest charges, including being arrested for domestic battery or getting arrested for battery.

Even before an arrest, what you say and how you act impacts your case. Stay calm and be respectful, but exercise your rights. For example, if you're wrongfully arrested for domestic violence, do not attempt to explain anything; everything you say can and will be used against you. 

Instead, the best course of action is to invoke your right to remain silent and request a criminal defense attorney. Whether you're arrested for battery, a white-collar crime, or a domestic matter, early legal representation will help you avoid further complications and set your case up for the most success.

If you're allowed a phone call, contact a trusted family member or friend. Ask them to search for the best criminal defense attorney available in your area. Finding a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer Wisconsin residents rely on can make all the difference in the early stages.

What Happens When You Are Arrested

When you're arrested, you'll likely be detained, searched, handcuffed, and then taken to a police station or jail. These procedures can feel invasive and intimidating, especially for someone getting arrested for domestic violence or arrested for domestic battery for the first time.

You will then go through booking, which includes fingerprinting, photographing (mugshot), and documenting your arrest charges. Remain cooperative, but remember that you do not have to and should not answer questions beyond providing basic identification information.

Your Rights When Arrested
You have certain constitutional rights that shield you from self-incrimination and unfair treatment. If you're arrested for domestic battery or any other criminal charge, asserting these rights from the beginning is essential. Saying anything, especially without legal guidance, can severely damage your defense later.

Do Not Speak to the Police Without a Lawyer

Even if you believe you've been wrongfully arrested for domestic violence, do not try to explain or talk your way out of the situation. Officers may use your words against you, even if you intend to clarify a misunderstanding.

Always wait to speak with a criminal defense attorney before making any statements. Your lawyer can protect you from inadvertently incriminating yourself, whether you're facing white-collar crime allegations or getting arrested for battery.

Contact Someone You Trust
If you can't call a criminal defense lawyer Wisconsin residents recommend, ask a trusted person to do it for you. Tell them your location and the nature of your arrest charges.

This is especially important if you've been arrested for domestic battery, where no-contact orders can restrict your communication. Acting quickly to find legal help can help ensure your rights and future are protected.

Once you've contacted a lawyer, they will start gathering information on your case immediately. An expert criminal defense attorney will assist you in preparing for your defense, make sure you're treated fairly during police interviews, and guide you through the process.

If you're still in custody, your lawyer may work to arrange your release. This could involve attending a bond hearing or negotiating bail. Having legal support at this stage is vital for those arrested for domestic battery or white-collar crimes, where restrictions or conditions are often severe.

Get a Criminal Defense Lawyer Involved Immediately
Legal counsel is critical right from the start. Your criminal defense lawyer should be present for all questioning and interactions with law enforcement. Whether you're getting arrested for domestic violence or accused of financial misconduct, early representation sets the tone for your entire case.

If you're wrongfully arrested for domestic abuse, your attorney may also begin gathering evidence to refute the charges and secure your release.

Start Preparing for Bail or First Appearance
Within the first 24 hours, you may be taken before a judge for a bail hearing. Your criminal defense attorney will argue for fair bail terms or a release on your own recognizance.

For those arrested for domestic battery, the judge may also issue temporary no-contact orders. Violating these orders can lead to additional arrest charges, so it's crucial to understand and follow them carefully.

What is an Order of Protection?
If you're getting arrested for domestic violence, you may face a protective or no-contact order. This can prevent you from returning home or communicating with the alleged victim.

These orders are legally binding. Violating them, even unintentionally, can result in new arrest charges. Your criminal defense lawyer will explain the terms and help you comply while preparing your defense.

Avoid posting anything about your case online. Whether you've been arrested for domestic battery or charged with a white-collar crime, anything you share can be used as evidence.

This includes tweets, texts, Facebook posts, and even private group chats. Assume that anything you say or send could be shown in court.

Avoid Social Media and Public Statements
If you're getting arrested for domestic violence, it may feel natural to want to defend yourself publicly. Don't do it. Social media statements often complicate cases and provide prosecutors with ammunition.

Let your criminal defense attorney handle all communications. This minimizes damage to your case and your personal reputation.

Start Strategizing With Your Lawyer

Work with your criminal defense lawyer to understand the details of your case and develop a short-term plan. This includes reviewing the facts, locating witnesses, and possibly obtaining surveillance footage or text message records.

This step is important if you're a professional or student arrested for domestic battery or white-collar charges, as reputational harm can be swift and long-lasting.

At this point, you may be released or preparing to appear in court. Review all instructions from your criminal defense lawyer in Wisconsin; professionals recommend and follow them exactly.

Depending on your charge, you might be subject to court restrictions that affect your housing, employment, or personal life. Your attorney will help you navigate these conditions safely.

Understand the Charges and Timeline
Make sure to collaborate closely with your criminal defense attorney to grasp your specific charges, the reasoning for your arrest, and what will need to be proven by the state. If you've been getting arrested for battery or domestic violence, your lawyer can explain the possible penalties and timeline of court appearances.

Work With Your Attorney to Build a Defense

Whether you were wrongfully arrested for domestic violence or accused of fraud, your defense begins now. A good criminal defense lawyer will start gathering evidence, identifying legal weaknesses, and interviewing witnesses. Your best defense will be tailored to your specific case. 

Prepare for Arraignment or Release Conditions
Be ready for your arraignment. Know when and where you're expected to be in court. Your criminal defense attorney will offer advice on what to wear, how to behave, and what to say (or not say).

If you've been arrested for domestic battery, make sure you understand and follow all bail terms or protective orders to avoid new legal trouble.

We act quickly when someone is arrested for domestic battery, white-collar crimes, or other serious charges. Immediate legal action can mean the difference between dropped charges and lasting consequences. Our team is ready to step in and protect your rights from the very beginning.

Located in Hudson, St. Croix County, we serve individuals across Wisconsin. Whether you're in a rural county or a major city, our reach and experience ensure consistent legal defense statewide. We know Wisconsin law and how to protect you from wrongful prosecution.

If you were wrongfully arrested for domestic violence or charged with a serious offense, we're here to help. We provide a strategic and aggressive defense to protect your future. Call us to speak with a trusted criminal defense attorney in Wisconsin.

The first 24 hours after being arrested are critical. From the moment you're taken into custody to your first court appearance, your actions can shape the outcome of your case. Whether you're facing charges for white-collar crimes, getting arrested for domestic violence, or being arrested for domestic battery, staying calm, invoking your rights, and working closely with a skilled attorney are essential steps.

Securing a reliable criminal defense lawyer early on, avoiding self-incrimination, preparing for bail or protective orders, and protecting your reputation online are all key moves. With the right legal strategy and immediate action, you can begin building a solid defense and safeguard your future.

Facing criminal charges in Wisconsin? Reach out to Nelson Defense Group for fast, experienced legal support.

Let our team stand with you and help protect your future starting now.