Learning that a loved one has found themselves on the wrong side of the law and is involved in a criminal investigation is a worrying time. Whether they’re innocent and are bystanders or need to be ruled out of an enquiry, or they’re guilty and the consequences and their actions have caught up with them, it’s really important to know what to do to help, not hinder the situation and get the best possible outcome as quickly as possible.
Of course, the police will have set procedures they need to follow to do their due diligence, and this can render your loved one in custody for up to 24 hours before being charged, while this occurs. In the meantime, if you want to help them, here are some things you can do.
Stay Calm
Remember, the last thing you should be doing is anything that can make things worse. They have already been arrested, and while it’s extremely worrying, the best thing you can do is stay calm now. This will help you address the situation with a clear head and think more rationally about the options and what happens next, giving you a sense of reassurance and control.
Don’t Try to Contact Them
When in police custody, they can only make one phone call, to a loved one or a solicitor. You cannot see or talk to them outside of this. They are also entitled to nominate a person to be informed that they have been arrested, so this could be a call you receive to let you know that this is currently happening.
Arrange Legal Help
If your loved one uses their one call to notify you of their arrest, then now is the time for the right criminal solicitor to help them out. They will need the right support, and if you can assist them in getting legal representation quickly, this can be a really beneficial action to help out effectively, making you feel proactive and supportive.
Don’t Share
In this day and age, it can be tempting to share with the world via social media; however, with your loved one in custody, they have a right to anonymity until they are charged. And if you share details of their arrest, this can make things worse or harm their case.
It’s important to understand that sharing such information can potentially affect their reputation, legal proceedings, and future opportunities. As tempting as it might be to vent to others, try to keep things private until you know what is going on or what the next steps will be.
Understand What Happens Next
In many cases, your loved one won’t face any further action, especially if they’re proven to be innocent or just helping with enquiries. But if they are bailed or remanded to custody, understanding what happens next and what you and your loved one need to do is imperative.
Talk to experts, get legal advice, and ensure that you don’t do anything that can jeopardise future outcomes to make the situation worse than it already is.
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