In case of a violent crime arrest in Louisiana, stay composed, use your right to remain silent, ask for a lawyer right away, and keep the communication about your case to your lawyer only. Obtaining a skilled attorney is the most important requirement to be done in the shortest possible time.
Immediate Actions
Stay Calm and Do Not Resist: The most significant immediate action is to maintain your calmness. Don't argue with, raise your voice to, or physically resist the police officers at all as this might result in extra charges against you.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: You are not required to answer any questions apart from giving your name and address. Delicately yet firmly declare: "I am exercising my right to remain silent. I want an attorney." After you have said this, stop talking.
Request an Attorney Immediately: The police will have to cease interrogating you as soon as you ask for a lawyer. Be persistent even if they try to make you talk casually or convince you to speak without an attorney.
Do Not Consent to Searches: You have the right to say no to searches of yourself, your possessions, your vehicle, or your house unless there is a legal search warrant or probable cause. Make it clear by saying, "I do not consent to a search". If the police do search anyway, do not interfere physically but tell your lawyer about the situation later.
Make a Phone Call: After you have been processed and sent to jail, you will probably be allowed to make one phone call. Your first call should be to a criminal defense lawyer or to a trusted person who can help in arranging legal representation for you.