Getting arrested can cause a public record created against you. In the state of Montana, MT arrest records are public and are accessible to all the citizens, in accordance with the Montana Public Records Laws.

What NOT to do when you get arrested?

Never resist an arrest. Resisting an arrest can get you injured as the police officers will try to use force to get you to submit. It may also lead to elevated charges against you.
Never talk back to the police. Answer only what is asked of you.
Never consent to a search. The police will ask you for consent only when they are not legally entitled to conduct a search. If they ask you for permission, decline very politely.
Do not attempt to run away from the spot. As with resisting arrest, it can lead to serious injury.
Do not talk to the police, except to ask for a lawyer. Anything that is said can be used against you. It is best to remain silent until you are provided with or engage a lawyer for yourself.

What to do when you are arrested?

Ask for a lawyer as the first step.
Ask for a phone call and call your parents if you are a minor, or your lawyer if you have one, or a person who can help you to get a lawyer in the situation.
Ask what charges are levied against you, but do not attempt to say anything more.
Once you get your lawyer, check on the next steps. Lawyers can usually tell when you can come out on bail. Use this option if it is feasible for you.

How to engage with a lawyer?

In case you cannot afford a lawyer, the state can provide you with one. You will be asked questions about your financial situation. It is best to answer them truthfully. These questions can help to determine if you are eligible for a state-appointed lawyer.
In case you have your own lawyer, ask for a phone call and call them to help you with the situation.
In case you don’t have a lawyer, and you are not eligible for a state-appointed one, you can ask for recommendations from the federal public defender’s office.

What to do once you are released?

Whether you are released without charges being pressed, or on bail, your lawyer should be able to guide you on the next steps. Make sure that you listen to them and do as instructed. It is also important to rally for support for yourself from your loved ones and take care of yourself while the ordeal of legal proceedings last.

Edward Werner is the author of this article. For further detail about Montana Public Records. Please visit the website: https://montana.staterecords.org