If you're charged with or arrested for a crime, you're entitled to certain constitutional rights such as the right to remain silent, the right to know that anything you say can be used against you in court, the right to stop answering questions at any time, and the right to an attorney. Your right to an attorney includes all stages of the criminal proceeding and begins at the point you become the focus of a police investigation. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint one to you without charge. If you are arrested, you have the right to know the charges against you, the identity of the police officers, and to make one phone call. This call should be to an attorney, your family, or a trusted friend. When being booked in the police station, you should cooperate by giving basic information which is not related to the offense you are accused of. However, before you answer any questions, it's best to talk with your attorney. What you tell your attorney is confidential, and the fact that you decline to answer police questions cannot be used against you in a criminal proceeding. Unless you are charged with a crime punishable by life in prison, you ordinarily have a right to bail pending trial. If you are accused of a crime or need to get out of jail, contact a qualified criminal defense attorney.