What Happens After an Arrest in Arizona

The hours after an arrest feel chaotic, but the process follows a predictable order. After booking, most people see a judge within 24 hours for an initial appearance, where release conditions are set — this may mean bond, supervised release, or release on your own recognizance.

Say as little as possible until you have spoken with an attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, and using those rights cannot be held against you. Do not discuss your case with other people in custody, on jail phones, or in messages — those conversations are routinely recorded.

Your first court date after release is the arraignment, where the formal charges are read and you enter a plea. Before that date, an attorney can review the police reports, look for problems with the stop or the evidence, and start talking with the prosecutor.

Keep every piece of paper you are given at the jail and the courthouse, and write down the names of everyone you interacted with. Organization in the first week gives your attorney a head start.

This article is general information, not legal advice. A criminal defense attorney can explain each step as it applies to you.