If you are arrested If you are arrested, you should always keep calm and not panic, because if you do the police will think that you are guilty. However, if you provide an innocent explanation for what you did, the police may leave you alone. It is always wise, even if you are innocent, not to discuss the case with the police until you have consulted privately with an attorney. Also, if the police tell you that we can have a "friendly chat", then say no because they can always use it against you later. If you are stopped on the street by a person claiming to be a policeman, always ask to see their warrant card, ask them to tell you why they stopped you and at the end of the search ask for the search report. You can also be stopped on the street if the police suspect that you are in possession of drugs, weapons, etc. If you physically resist a search, you run the risk of both physical injury and serious criminal charges. If it is an illegal search you should take action later using the law. When you actually enter the police station you always have the right to be treated humanely and with respect, to see the written codes that regulate your rights and how you are treated, to know why you were arrested, to have someone notify you of your arrest and to consult a lawyer in private. Always remember not to panic. You cannot be locked up indefinitely. The police sometimes keep you isolated and wait for you in the cell to "soften you up". Above all, try to stay calm. The police can only detain you for a certain period of time, normally a maximum of 24 hours (36 hours for a serious crime punishable by arrest)).