Know Your Rights

If You Are Arrested by the Police

If you are arrested by the police and charged with a crime, you have the right to speak to an attorney. If you are unable to afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you at your first court appearance. If you are not a citizen, it is important that your attorney explain to you the immigration consequences of the crime with which you are charged. Pleading guilty to certain crimes, even minor ones, may result in deportation, even if a person serves no time in jail. If your attorney is not knowledgeable about immigration law, she or he should speak to an immigration attorney so that your rights may be protected.

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