When Arrested

The arrest. An officer can arrest you without an arrest warrant if the officer has probable cause to
believe you committed a felony or if the officer sees you commit a misdemeanor. You cannot leave the
scene or impede the officer's performance of the officer's duties.

Searches. When an officer detains you to investigate a potential crime, he may conduct a "pat search"
of your body to secure his own safety. Upon arrest, an officer can search you without a warrant for
weapons, evidence or illegal or stolen goods.

Questioning. Prior to questioning you, an officer should advise you of your right to remain silent, that
anything you say may be used against you, and that if you cannot afford a lawyer, the court will appoint
one for you. You do not have to answer any questions except to give your name and address and show
identification if requested. If you respond to questions, then change your mind, officers must cease
questioning you as soon as you say so or as soon as you say that you want a lawyer.

Physical evidence. Officers may request that you surrender certain physical evidence. For example, if
officers suspect you of driving under the influence of alcohol, they may request that you take a test to
measure the amount of alcohol in your system. If you refuse, your department of motor vehicles will
suspend your driver's license and prosecutors will use your refusal to take the test against you.

Booking. At a police station, officers will enter your arrest into official police records, take samples of
your fingerprints, and photograph you. You may make three free telephone calls within the local dialing
area. To make any additional calls from jail, you must dial collect. The police may conduct a full body
search, including body cavities.

Arrest records. Local police departments and the state Department of Justice keep arrest records. They
may show these records to law enforcement officers only, and may only show records of your convictions
to certain licensing agencies which have a right to investigate your criminal background.