If you are arrested in Raleigh, North Carolina, you will be handcuffed and transported to the nearest police station. From there, you will undergo the booking process which includes asking you for your personal information, as well as fingerprinting. Once this process is complete, you will be sent to the main booking area and processed for your court appearance.
If you’re aware ahead of time that you’re going to be arrested, or you’re arrested at your place of business or home, you can leave personal property behind except for identification. The fewer personal items you have with you, the faster you will get through the booking process.
Once you arrive at the police station, an officer will search you and take your property. These items will be kept until you’re released from custody. You will receive a “voucher” form listing your items so that you may get them back later. If you possess any items that the police consider to be contraband, the items will be listed on a separate voucher known as “arrest evidence”. It is also likely that you will face additional charges related to the possession of that evidence.
If you are being charged with a misdemeanor or felony, you will be photographed and fingerprinted. If the police are not able to determine your identity, or feel you are lying about who you are, your time spent in their custody will be prolonged. Being charged with a felony could also mean that you will have your cheek swabbed for the DNA database The booking process typically takes 4-6 hours. During this time, you will be placed in a holding cell and entitled to make a phone call or two.
You are probably familiar with Miranda Rights, and it’s important to note that your Miranda warnings only need to be read when an officer intends to question you. You should also know that anything you say in the presence of the police can be used against you. Miranda rights only need to be read if the police are planning on using your responses to a custodial interrogation against you at trial. If you are not read your Miranda rights, it does not mean that your case should be summarily dismissed.
If you have been arrested, or fear you may be soon be placed under arrest, it is imperative that you seek the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Raleigh right away. In order to protect your rights, it is crucial that you seek representation immediately.
For more information, contact Scharff Law Firm in Raleigh, North Carolina at (919) 457-1954 today.
