Should I explain my side to clear things up?

No. Anything you say can be used against you. Ask for a lawyer and stay silent — you can tell your side later, through counsel, when it helps.

How does bond work in Texas?

A magistrate sets bail and conditions of release shortly after arrest. A lawyer can seek a bond or a reduction based on the relevant factors.

Arrested in Texas? Your Rights in the First 24 Hours

What should I do in the first 24 hours after an arrest in Texas?

Use your right to remain silent and your right to a lawyer — say you want an attorney and stop answering questions. Do not consent to searches, do not explain your side to police, and do not discuss the case on a recorded jail line. Write down what you remember, and contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. In Texas, a magistrate must promptly inform you of the charges and set conditions of release (bond); a lawyer can seek a bond or reduction.

Silence is a right, not an admission

You have the constitutional right to remain silent and to counsel — using them can't be held against you. Say: "I want a lawyer, and I'm not answering questions." Then stop. This is true whether you were arrested in Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington, Plano, Houston, San Antonio, or anywhere in Texas.

Don't consent to searches

You can decline to consent to a search of your car, phone, or home. If police search anyway, that's for your lawyer to challenge — but consenting waives the issue.

The jail phone is recorded

Calls from jail (except to your attorney) are recorded and used by prosecutors. Discuss the facts only with your lawyer.

Bond in Texas

A magistrate promptly informs you of the accusation and sets bail/conditions. A lawyer can request a bond or reduction so you're not held longer than necessary.

If you're not a U.S. citizen

A criminal charge can carry immigration consequences even before conviction — see crimigration.

Arrested in Oklahoma? See the Oklahoma version.

Talk to a Texas criminal defense lawyer — free & confidential Call (866) 230-7236

The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Contacting the firm, submitting a form, or using the chat does not create an attorney-client relationship. A relationship is formed only through a signed written engagement agreement.

Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every matter is different and depends on its own facts.

Attorney advertising. This material is for general information and may be considered advertising under the rules of the State Bar of Texas and the Oklahoma Bar Association.

Frequently asked questions

Should I explain my side to clear things up?: No. Anything you say can be used against you. Ask for a lawyer and stay silent — you can tell your side later, through counsel, when it helps.
How does bond work in Texas?: A magistrate sets bail and conditions of release shortly after arrest. A lawyer can seek a bond or a reduction based on the relevant factors.

Arrested in Texas? Your rights in the first 24 hours