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What to Do in the First 48 Hours After a Criminal Charge
If you or a loved one has just been charged, the next 48 hours are critical, and most people make costly mistakes without realizing it. This free guide walks you through exactly what to do, what to say, and what to avoid before you speak with anyone.
Expert Advice
The decisions made in the first 48 hours can shape everything that follows.
A criminal charge, whether yours or your loved one’s, is overwhelming. The system moves fast, and most people don't know what they're allowed to do, what they're required to do, or what they should absolutely avoid doing.
This guide was written to give you a clear, honest starting point — before you've even spoken to an attorney. It won't replace legal advice, but it will help you protect yourself and avoid the most common mistakes that make a difficult situation worse.
Inside this guide:
- The one thing you must NOT say to police; even if you're innocent
- Why staying silent is your most powerful legal right
- The 3 calls to make in the first hour after a charge
- What to do if you or a loved one has been charged with a juvenile offense
- How to document everything before evidence disappears
- What to expect at your first court appearance
Quick Tips Explained & More...
01
Do NOT speak to law enforcement alone
Anything you say — even something that sounds harmless — can be used against you. Exercise your right to remain silent until you have legal counsel present.
02
Stop posting on social media immediately
Photos, check-ins, comments, and even old posts can be pulled as evidence. Lock down all accounts and do not discuss the situation online with anyone.
03
Write down everything you remember
Details fade fast. Document the sequence of events, names of anyone present, and anything said by officers. Your attorney will need this information.
04
Call an attorney before your first court date
The first appearance sets the tone for the entire case. Walking in without representation — or with the wrong representation — can cost you options you can never get back.
05
Do not contact alleged victims or witnesses
Even a well-meaning message can be interpreted as witness tampering or intimidation. All communication must go through your attorney.
06
Gather and preserve any evidence in your favor
Receipts, messages, photos, video footage, and witness contact information can all support your defense. Collect what you can — but do not alter or delete anything.
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