Top 7 Things to Do If You're Arrested in Calgary

Getting arrested in Calgary can be scary and confusing. You might not know what to say or do, and one wrong move could make things worse. That’s why it’s important to stay calm and know your rights.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 7 things to do if you're arrested in Calgary. These tips can help protect your rights and keep you safe—plus, we’ll explain why talking to a criminal lawyer in Calgary is one of the most important steps you can take.

1. Stay Calm

It’s normal to feel scared or angry during an arrest, but try your best to stay calm. Don’t yell, argue, or fight back. Being polite and quiet can stop the situation from getting worse.

2. Don’t Fight the Arrest

Even if you think the arrest is wrong, do not resist. Pushing, running away, or yelling can lead to extra charges. Let the police do their job, and deal with the legal side later—with the help of a criminal lawyer in Calgary.

3. Use Your Right to Remain Silent

You only have to give your name, birthdate, and address. You don’t need to answer any other questions. You can simply say: “I want to remain silent until I speak with a lawyer.”

Saying too much or trying to explain things on your own can hurt your case later.

4. Ask for a Criminal Lawyer Right Away

You have the right to talk to a criminal lawyer in Calgary as soon as possible. Don’t wait. A lawyer will explain your rights, what the charges mean, and what to do next.

There is also duty counsel—a free legal advisor who can help right after your arrest. But for serious cases, it’s best to hire your own lawyer.

5. Don’t Agree to a Search

Police might ask to search your car, phone, or home. If they don’t have a warrant, you don’t have to agree. You can say: “I do not agree to a search.”

Let your lawyer deal with this later. Saying yes to a search can make your case harder to fight.

6. Remember What Happened

Try to remember and write down:

What time the arrest happened
Who the officers were
What they said
If you were hurt or treated unfairly

These details will help your Calgary criminal lawyer understand your case and defend you better.

7. Call a Friend or Family Member

After speaking to your lawyer, call someone you trust. They can:

Help with bail
Bring clothes or documents
Let your work or school know what’s going on

Having support makes a big difference.

Why You Should Talk to a Criminal Lawyer in Calgary

Being arrested in Calgary is serious. A good criminal lawyer can help you understand what’s happening, protect your rights, and fight for the best outcome in court.

Criminal laws in Alberta can be complex, but a local Calgary lawyer knows how the system works—and can guide you every step of the way.

Final Words

If you're ever arrested in Calgary, remember these 7 steps:

Stay calm
Don’t resist
Stay silent
Ask for a lawyer
Don’t agree to searches
Take notes
Call someone you trust

The best thing you can do is get legal help fast. An experienced criminal lawyer in Calgary will protect your rights and give you the support you need.