What To Do If You’re Charged With a Crime in Kentucky
Step-by-Step Legal Advice from Farra Law Firm in Louisville
Being arrested is one of the most stressful experiences anyone can face. It’s confusing. It’s fast. And it can change your life if you don’t take immediate action.
Whether it’s your first offense or you’ve been through the system before, this guide from Farra Law Firm shows exactly what to do, what to avoid, and how to protect your rights after an arrest in Kentucky.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Stay Silent
DO:
- Stay calm
- Speak respectfully
- Keep your hands visible
- Ask, “Am I free to leave?”
DON’T:
- Argue with officers
- Resist or flee
- Insult or provoke police
- Admit anything
Even saying “I only had one drink” can be used against you later.
Step 2: Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
Use these words clearly:
“I am invoking my right to remain silent.”
Then say nothing else — not even to “explain” your side. Every word can be used as evidence.
Step 3: Ask for a Criminal Defense Attorney
Tell officers:
“I want to speak with my lawyer.”
Once you say this, police must stop all questioning. Don’t agree to any interviews or “off the record” chats.
Step 4: Do Not Consent to Searches
Politely say:
“I do not consent to any searches.”
Without a warrant or probable cause, this limits what evidence can be used against you.
Step 5: Don’t Talk About the Case With Anyone
That includes:
- Friends
- Family
- Cellmates
- Social media
Reminder: Jail calls are recorded. Messages can be subpoenaed.
Step 6: Gather Evidence Immediately
Preserve anything that can help your case:
- Texts, emails, screenshots
- Security footage or Ring cameras
- Clothing worn
- Witness names and contact info
- Receipts, timestamps, or photos
Ask your lawyer to send preservation letters to protect video evidence before it’s deleted.
Step 7: Write Down Everything You Remember
Do this within 24 hours:
- What happened before, during, and after the arrest
- What police said or did
- Whether they read you your rights
- Witnesses present
- Timeline of events
Details fade fast — this documentation can protect you.
Step 8: Call Farra Law Firm ASAP
We can help with:
- Fighting for a lower bond
- Preventing self-incrimination
- Challenging evidence
- Speaking with prosecutors on your behalf
- Protecting your license and job
- Reviewing video and building your defense
Early legal action often leads to better outcomes.
Step 9: Understand Bond Conditions
If released on bond, follow every restriction:
- No contact with alleged victims
- No alcohol or drugs
- No weapons
- Stay in the county
- Attend all check-ins and hearings
One mistake can land you back in jail.
Step 10: Don’t Miss Court — Ever
Missing court can trigger:
- A bench warrant
- Higher bail
- New charges
Tips:
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- Dress respectfully
Let your attorney speak for you
Step 11: Ignore Police Calls — Let Your Lawyer Respond
If detectives call, don’t respond. They may say:
“We just want your side of the story.”
That’s a trap. Say:
“Please speak with my attorney.”
Step 12: Follow Your Attorney’s Instructions
We may ask you to:
- Complete classes
- Stay away from certain people
- Submit evaluations
- Stay off social media
It’s all part of a smart legal strategy — trust the process.
Step 13: Stay Employed, Enrolled, or Involved
Judges look favorably on:
- Holding a job
- Attending school
- Volunteering
- Staying active in the community
These can help during negotiations or sentencing.
Step 14: Know Your Long-Term Legal Options
Depending on your situation, we may pursue:
- Dismissal of charges
- Plea to a lesser offense
- Entry into a diversion program
- Expungement down the road
- Not guilty verdict at trial
We’ll walk you through every option based on your case facts.
Final Advice from Matt Farra
Being arrested doesn’t mean you’re guilty.
But doing the wrong things after arrest can make things worse.
Protect your rights early — and let your attorney do the talking.
