Watch: Arrest Explained in Plain English
Video explainer from ReedNolan.com and ReedNolanLaw.com — educational only, not legal advice.
Short version: keep your words brief and your tone steady. Ask if you’re free to leave. If not, use the rights script below and stop discussing facts.
Rights script: “I choose to remain silent. I want a lawyer. I don’t consent to any searches.”
What to say (and not say)
- “Am I free to leave?” If yes, depart calmly.
- Don’t try to “explain everything” roadside; stress creates contradictions.
- If asked for consent to search, it’s okay to say, “I don’t consent to any searches.”
When dealing with a Reed Nolan arrest, the most effective step is to say less, stay calm, and let legal counsel handle the facts. Families can focus on paperwork and communication instead of arguments in the moment.
What to organize in the first 48 hours
- Facility name, booking number, arresting agency, and earliest time counsel can speak with them.
- One-folder documents: legal name & DOB, citation/case number, property receipt, next court date.
- Treat non-legal calls as recorded: share logistics only (who/when/where), not case facts.
Common terms (plain English)
- Detention
- Brief stop while officers investigate; you’re not free to leave.
- Probable cause
- Facts that support an arrest.
- Consent
- Permission to search; declining keeps protections in place.
- Booking
- Identification and property inventory at a local jail.
- Arraignment
- First court appearance; scheduling and initial decisions happen here.