Take a breath.
One stormy night, one misunderstanding, or one mistake does not have to ruin the rest of your life. I’ve been defending people in Connecticut for over 30 years as a Connecticut criminal defense lawyer. Good, hard-working people find themselves in the criminal system every single day. You are not alone in this.
This article explains what to do immediately after an arrest—your rights, the first steps you should take, and how to choose the right lawyer to help you through it.
Take a Breath: You’re Not the First Person to Go Through This
The first hours and days after an arrest are usually full of panic and worst-case scenarios. It’s normal to feel scared, embarrassed, and angry—with yourself, with the police, or with the person who called them.
What I tell clients all the time is this:
- You can’t change what has already happened.
- You can control what you do next.
The criminal process is confusing by design. The police, prosecutors, and courts do this every day. You don’t. That’s why the decisions you make right now—what you say, who you talk to, and whether you get legal advice—can make a huge difference in how this case turns out.
Your Immediate Rights After an Arrest in Connecticut
Even when you feel powerless, you still have important rights. The problem is that most people don’t really understand them, or they accidentally waive them in the heat of the moment.
Your Right to Remain Silent (Use It)
Everyone has heard, “You have the right to remain silent.” Very few people actually use it.
After an arrest, many people think, “If I just explain my side, they’ll see I’m a good person and let me go.” That almost never happens. What usually happens is that innocent explanations get twisted into evidence.
You have the absolute right not to answer questions about what happened. You can give basic identifying information—your name, address, date of birth—but you do not have to explain the incident.
A simple, respectful response is enough:
“Officer, I want to cooperate, but I would like to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.”
Silence can’t be used against you. Your words almost always can.
Your Right to an Attorney
You also have the right to talk to a lawyer before questioning and to have a lawyer present during questioning.
That means you do not have to sign written statements, you do not have to answer “just a few quick questions,” and you can stop the interview at any time by asking for a lawyer.
If you can’t afford to hire a private lawyer, you may qualify for a public defender. Public defenders are real lawyers; they are just often overworked and handling very heavy caseloads. A private lawyer has more flexibility to give you one-on-one attention. Either way, invoking your right to a lawyer is one of the smartest things you can do after an arrest.
Your Right to Reasonable Bail and Conditions
After an arrest, the court will set conditions of release. These can include a financial bond (cash or surety), a promise to appear, protective/no-contact orders, or conditions like no alcohol, counseling, or GPS in more serious cases. The judge’s job is to decide what’s reasonably necessary to ensure you come back to court and protect the public. Your lawyer’s job is to argue for the least restrictive conditions possible.
Bail Reform in Connecticut—Why Many Misdemeanor Cases Don’t See High Bonds
With recent bail reforms, most misdemeanor defendants are released on a summons, a promise to appear, or a low bond. Serious cash or surety bonds are now usually reserved for serious felony matters—violent offenses, repeat offenders, firearm cases, or where there’s a real risk to public safety or of failing to appear.
In many cases, there is now a 7% cash option on bonds up to $50,000. For a typical lower-level bond (e.g., $50,000 or less), you may be able to post 7% in cash directly with the court and be released without using a bondsman. If you appear at all court dates, that cash is returned at the end of the case (usually minus a small fee), even if the case ends in a plea. By contrast, a bondsman’s premium is a fee—you don’t get it back.
Judges can exclude the 7% option in severe cases, but for many lower-level matters, this reform helps people get out, stay working, and recover most of their money once the case is over.
What Happens in the First 24–48 Hours After an Arrest?
Understanding the steps can help you feel more in control.
Booking, Fingerprints, and Photographs
In a custodial arrest, you’ll be brought to the station for booking, which includes a photo, fingerprints, and basic information. For some minor offenses, an officer may skip full booking and issue a misdemeanor summons/complaint with a court date. It still counts as an arrest, but it can feel more like receiving a very serious ticket. For more serious or felony cases, expect full booking.
Depending on the charge and your record, you may be released on a summons/promise to appear, held on a bond until you post, or brought to court the next business day for arraignment.
The Arraignment in a Connecticut GA Court
Most cases start in a GA court. The judge doesn’t read your charges out loud; the court uses the paperwork. At the start of the session, the judge reads the rights to everyone in the room. In your case, the court will address bond and conditions, issue/continue protective orders where applicable, and schedule your next date.
Protective Orders and No-Contact Orders
In domestic violence and certain other cases, the court may issue a protective order. This can be a full no-contact, partial, or residential stay-away. These orders are serious—violations are separate crimes. Contact includes texts, DMs, social media messages, going to a home or job, or asking others to pass messages. If you’re unsure what’s allowed, get clarity from your lawyer before you act.
Critical First Steps You Should Take After Being Arrested
Stop Talking About the Incident—Phone, Text, or Social Media
Assume jail calls are recorded, texts can be screenshotted, and social posts live forever. If you wouldn’t want it read aloud in court, don’t say it.
Write Down What Happened While It’s Fresh
Privately draft a timeline: before, during, and after; who was present; what was said; relevant background. Treat it as confidential for your lawyer—don’t share or post it.
Save Evidence and Contact Information
Preserve texts, DMs, call logs, voicemails, emails, witness names/contacts, and note any surveillance cameras that may have captured events. Your lawyer will decide what’s helpful, but preservation is key.
Stay Off Social Media About Your Case
Don’t “tell your side” online. It almost always backfires. Stay silent about the case until it’s resolved.
How a Connecticut Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You Right Away
Protecting You at the First Court Date
Before arraignment, your lawyer reviews the police report, explains exposure, prepares arguments for lower bail and less restrictive conditions, and plans for protective-order logistics if you live with the protected party or share children.
Preserving Evidence and Getting Your Side Heard
Early involvement helps preserve surveillance footage, 911 calls, body-cam video, medical records, and prior messages that provide context. We build the full picture—not just the snapshot in the report.
Exploring Options: Dismissal, Diversion, and Reduced Charges
Many cases resolve short of trial through diversionary programs, such as the accelerated rehabilitation program, which can lead to dismissal, negotiated reductions, or motions challenging evidence. Strategy should protect both your short-term and long-term interests.
Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer in Connecticut
Look for experience with your type of charge.
Domestic violence, DUI/OUI, larceny, assault, drugs, weapons—make sure the lawyer regularly handles cases like yours. Beware the “does everything” generalist.
Someone who actually explains the process to you. You should get plain-English answers, prompt communication, and a real plan—not jargon.
Local knowledge of Connecticut courts. Regulars in your courthouse understand local rhythms, priorities, and realistic outcomes.
Comfort level and trust. You’ll be working closely together during a stressful time. If you don’t feel heard and respected, keep looking.
Common Mistakes People Make After Being Arrested (And How to Avoid Them)
Talking to the police to “clear things up” without a lawyer.
Texting the alleged victim in violation of a protective order.
Posting about the case on social media.
Missing the first court date or arriving unprepared.
Hiring the cheapest option instead of the right experience.
Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically improve your outcome.
FAQs: What People Ask Me Right After an Arrest in Connecticut
Do I have to talk to the police after I’m arrested?
No. You have the absolute right to remain silent. Politely ask to speak with a lawyer first.
Should I call or text the alleged victim to “smooth things over”?
No. It can violate an order and lead to a new arrest, and messages are often used against you.
Will I go to jail at my first court date?
In many first-offense cases, the goal is release on minimal conditions. Your lawyer argues for that.
Is my case automatically ruined if I already talked to the police?
Not necessarily. We work with what’s been said, review the evidence, and limit the damage.
Can a first-time arrest in Connecticut ever be dismissed?
Sometimes. Depending on the charge and record, diversionary programs or other resolutions can lead to dismissal if you complete the conditions.
How quickly should I hire a lawyer after being arrested?
As soon as you can. Early action protects evidence, addresses bail/orders, and prevents hard-to-fix mistakes.
Take Action Now: Get Help Before Your Next Court Date
If you’ve been arrested anywhere in Connecticut, you don’t have to go through this alone. The system is intimidating by design, but you do have rights, options, and defenses. The most important step you can take right now is to get informed and get represented before your next court date.
If you’re ready to talk about what happened and make a plan, I’m here to help.
Call Attorney Allan F. Friedman, Criminal Lawyer, at (203) 357-5555 or use my Contact page to schedule a completely confidential consultation. Don’t sit at home and hope this all just “goes away.” Let’s sit down, go over your situation, and start working toward the best possible outcome for your future.