# What to Do Right After an Arrest | TadLaw **Table of Contents***[*Expand*]* 1. The Critical First Moments 2. Post-Arrest Procedure 3. Bail and Bond 4. Important Early Decisions 5. DWI & DUI Cases & Texas Law 6. Long-Term Strategy and Trial Preparation 7. Your Allies in the Legal Battle 8. Talk with a Lawyer Today! An arrest for DWI, DUI or any other criminal charge is usually followed by anxiety and an uneasy feeling about the future. In these situations, robust legal representation will be a large part of helping you to address the matter while preparing to get on with your life. Today, we’ll go over a few important things to know about handling an arrest situation so that you can make informed decisions immediately following an arrest. If you or a loved one were arrested and charged with a crime in Houston or Galveston County, we invite you to contact us about the matter. We’re Tad Nelson & Associates. We can be reached at [**713-802-1631**](tel:7138021631). ![Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer Tad Nelson - What to Do Right After an Arrest](https://tadlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Attorney-Tad-Nelson-Board-Certified-in-Criminal-Law-1.webp) ## The Critical First Moments ### Know Your Rights Under both the Constitution of the United States and the Texas Constitution, you have rights which protect you from the moment of your arrest. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Although most people overlook these during police encounters, it’s important for the long term outcome of your case that you exercise said rights. Let’s review them. - **Right to Remain Silent**: Utilize this right immediately. Anything you say can be used against you in court (Texas Penal Code, Title 1, Chapter 38). Be sure to communicate your choice to remain silent in a polite manner. - **Right to an Attorney**: Contact a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Tad Nelson & Amber Spurlock, with our decades of criminal defense experience are well-equipped to guide you through the legal process. ## Post-Arrest Procedure Once arrested in Texas, you’ll likely be taken to a local law enforcement station for booking. This process involves recording your personal information, taking fingerprints, and possibly a mug shot. Remember, do not divulge details about your case without your attorney present. For a free legal consultation, call [(281) 280-0100](tel:+12812800100) today ## Bail and Bond The next step often involves a bail hearing to determine if you can be released from custody before your trial. Bail amounts for drunk driving offenses can vary. Bonds and bails are influenced by factors such as prior offenses and the specific circumstances of your case. The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can help you get the most out of bond hearings and bail procedures. Our main goal would be advocating for your release under fair and reasonable conditions. ## Important Early Decisions ### Choosing The Right Legal Representation Selecting the best defense attorney for your case is a decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. [Houston criminal defense attorney Tad Nelson](https://tadlaw.com/), a former Assistant Galveston County District Attorney, has extensive experience in the criminal justice system. He’s been practicing law since 1991. Amber Spurlock, a seasoned federal criminal defense attorney, has extensive prosecutorial insight which is leveraged to enhance her defense acumen. Their expertise as [ACS/CHAL Lawyer-Scientists](https://tadlaw.com/about/) equips them uniquely for DWI and DUI cases in addition to murder cases and other offenses where a conviction can hinge on chemical evidence. ### Gathering Evidence and Building Your Defense Gather evidence early on in your case can be a huge help. Evidence could include video footage, witness statements, and documentation of the arrest procedure. At Tad Nelson & Associates, we scrutinize every detail of your case, from the traffic stop to the administration of field sobriety tests. If your rights were violated, it could mean a complete dismissal of your case. ## DWI & DUI Cases & Texas Law ### Texas Penal Code and Criminal Procedure DWI/DUI charges in Texas are governed by specific statutes within [Texas Penal Code, Title 10, Chapter 49](https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/docs/pe/htm/pe.49.htm). In Texas, driving with a [Blood Alcohol Concentration](https://tadlaw.com/resources/alcohol-awareness/bac-calculator-and-alcohol-chart/) (BAC) of 0.08% or higher constitutes legal intoxication. However, you can be charged with DWI even with a lower BAC if your driving ability is impaired. Familiarity with these laws and know how to apply them to your case is an important skill for a DWI lawyer to have. Our extensive experience with Texas law ensures a comprehensive understanding of the charges against you – in addition to the best possible defense strategy. ## Long-Term Strategy and Trial Preparation ### Plea Bargains vs. Trial While some cases may be resolved through plea negotiations, others may require a trial. We’ll evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case and provide advice on the best course of action. With Tad Nelson’s unique insights as a former prosecutor and our firm’s robust defense strategies, we’ll be ready to represent you in court. ### Criminal Convictions & Your Future A conviction for a criminal charge in Texas can have far-reaching implications. These implications can affect everything from your employment opportunities to personal relationships. Our goal is to minimize these long-term consequences by working to achieve an outcome that protects your future. [Click to contact](https://tadlaw.com/contact-us/) our criminal defense lawyer today ## Your Allies in the Legal Battle ### The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates At the Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates, we understand the gravity of [DWI/DUI](https://tadlaw.com/resources/texas-dwi-resources/first-offense-dwi/) charges and the stress they bring. For your convenience, we offer confidential consultations, flexible payment options, and a commitment to affordable legal fees. Our track record, evident in numerous 5-star reviews and a clean record with the State Bar of Texas, speaks to our dedication and success in defending our clients. ## Talk with a Lawyer Today! Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, contact our office today to schedule your free, non-obligatory consultation. Speak with a defense attorney today by calling [**713-802-1631**](tel:7138021631). **[Click or press here](https://tadlaw.com/contact-us/) to send us a message form.** https://vimeo.com/839118021/5e25a3433d Call or text [(281) 280-0100](tel:+12812800100) or fill out our [Free Case Evaluation Form](https://tadlaw.com/contact-us/) to get started News Blog Posts: [Partner Strangulation Now a Texas Felony News Intimate Partner Strangulation Now a Felony in Texas On September 1, 2009, two measures went into effect that increase the potential penalties...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/partner-strangulation-now-a-texas-felony/) [Capital Felonies in Texas News A capital felony, as defined by the Texas Penal Code §12.31, is a criminal offense in which an individual intentionally or knowingly causes...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/capital-felonies-in-texas/) [Touring Clear Lake Like a Local News Touring Clear Lake, TX Area Like a Local The Clear Lake area is a widespread, active, community with endless opportunities to get out and...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/touring-clear-lake-like-a-local/) [Best Taxi Services in Clear Lake News Best Taxi Services in Clear Lake, TX As we approach the holiday season, The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates wants to remind...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/best-taxi-services-in-clear-lake/) --- Source: https://tadlaw.com/faqs/what-to-do-right-after-an-arrest/