What To Do When You Have Been Arrested
At Cates & Reed, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming it feels the moment you are arrested or contacted by law enforcement. In the video above, attorney Dwane Cates explains what this contact really means and why it is such an important point in your case. When officers reach out to you, they are not just asking questions in general. They are investigating a crime, and you are at the center of that investigation.
Dwane reminds viewers that when law enforcement focuses on you, you are no longer a bystander. You are the person they are looking at as a possible suspect, and what you say and do from that point forward can affect your future. It can be hard to think clearly in that moment, which is why having someone to guide you matters. Our role is to step in, help you understand what is happening, and work to protect your rights throughout the process.
As Dwane explains in the video, once you are under investigation you should not try to handle the situation alone or wait to see what happens next.
“At that point you are the suspect and now you need someone to help fight for you.”
We view that moment as the time to reach out and get legal guidance so you are not answering questions or making decisions in the dark. Our team is here to listen to what happened, help you understand your options, and support you as the case moves forward. By taking that step, you give yourself a chance to respond with a clearer picture of what is at stake and what comes next.
Another key point Dwane makes is the importance of timing. The arrest or first contact from law enforcement is often sudden, and questions can start immediately. It is easy to feel pressured to respond right away, but you do not have to go through those conversations without help. We encourage you to reach out to Cates & Reed, PLLC as soon as possible so you can talk with someone who understands the process and can walk you through what to expect.
In the video, Dwane also talks about how crucial it is to be able to reach someone when you need help, not just during regular business hours.
“We answer 24 over seven all times, all days, and we will be there to help you through that process.”
That constant availability reflects how seriously we take these situations. An arrest does not wait for a convenient time, and questions rarely arise on a set schedule. When you contact Cates & Reed, PLLC, you are reaching out to a team that understands the urgency and is prepared to respond. Our goal is to provide clear, straightforward information so you are not facing these decisions alone.
Whether you choose to watch the video or read this summary, we want you to come away with a simple message. If law enforcement is contacting you about a crime, your next steps matter. You do not have to face that alone. When you are ready to talk about what is happening and what you can do next, you can call (480) 864-3807 to reach Cates & Reed, PLLC for help.