What to Do After Being Arrested in Tampa, Florida

Being arrested is overwhelming, but what you do in the hours and days following your arrest can make a major difference in the outcome of your case. If you or a loved one has been arrested in Tampa, Florida, understanding your rights and taking the right steps immediately can protect your freedom and your future.

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we have defended thousands of individuals through the criminal process. Here’s what you need to know if you are facing criminal charges in Tampa.

1. Remain Calm and Silent

After an arrest, the best thing you can do is remain calm and respectful. Do not resist or argue with law enforcement. Anything you say can and will be used against you. You have a constitutional right to remain silent — use it. Politely inform officers that you do not wish to answer questions without a lawyer present.

2. Contact a Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately

Early intervention by an experienced criminal defense attorney can have a major impact on your case. A lawyer can:

• Protect your rights during police questioning
• Negotiate for a reasonable bond or release conditions
• Begin gathering evidence to support your defense
• Potentially prevent formal charges from being filed

At The Brancato Law Firm, we are available to step in as soon as you or a family member calls us. The sooner we are involved, the stronger your defense will be.

3. Know What to Expect: First Appearance and Bond Hearings

If you are arrested in Tampa, you will likely be booked into the Orient Road Jail. Within 24 hours, you are entitled to a first appearance hearing before a judge. During this hearing, the court will:

• Review the charges
• Determine whether there was probable cause for your arrest
• Set conditions of release (bond, supervised release, etc.)

Having a skilled Tampa criminal defense attorney present at this early stage can lead to better bond conditions or even an early release without bond in some cases.

4. Avoid Discussing Your Case With Anyone but Your Attorney

Friends, family members, and cellmates are not protected by attorney-client privilege. Statements you make to them can be used against you in court. Until you have spoken with your attorney, avoid discussing the facts of your case with anyone.

5. Important Warning for Family Members: Be Careful With Jail Phone Calls

If your loved one calls you from jail, it is critical to remember that every call is recorded — and prosecutors often listen to these calls closely. Innocent-sounding conversations can easily be taken out of context or used to hurt your loved one’s case.

Never discuss details about the case, charges, or what happened during a jail phone call.
Even simple comments like “You just need to tell them what really happened” can be twisted and used by prosecutors in court.

If your loved one calls you, keep the conversation brief, supportive, and focused only on practical matters such as securing an attorney or arranging for bond.

6. Start Preparing Your Defense Immediately

Time is critical after an arrest. Witness memories fade, physical evidence can be lost, and prosecutors begin building their case quickly. An experienced defense team can:

• Preserve surveillance footage
• Interview critical witnesses
• Analyze police reports for constitutional violations
• Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case

At The Brancato Law Firm, we move quickly to build the strongest possible defense for our clients.

7. Understand the Importance of Local Knowledge

Criminal cases in Tampa are prosecuted by the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office. Knowing the local court system, judges, prosecutors, and typical practices is essential. Our firm’s extensive experience in Tampa’s courtrooms allows us to navigate these processes effectively on behalf of our clients.

8. Take Care of Your Personal Affairs

Depending on the charges you face, criminal cases can last several months or more. After an arrest, it’s wise to:

• Arrange for child care or family support
• Notify your employer (where appropriate)
• Avoid further police contact
• Stay off social media (prosecutors often monitor online activity)

Taking these proactive steps can make a significant difference as your case progresses. Discuss each with your attorney as part of an overall comprehensive plan.

Conclusion: Your Future Is Not Defined by Your Arrest

An arrest is a serious matter, but it is not the same as a conviction. With the right legal representation, many cases result in reduced charges, dismissals, or favorable plea agreements. In some cases, charges can be dropped entirely.

If you or someone you love has been arrested in Tampa, do not wait. Contact The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. today for a confidential consultation. We are ready to protect your rights, fight for your freedom, and help you move forward.

Call The Brancato Law Firm today at (813) 592-8981 or schedule a confidential case evaluation.

Serving Tampa, Ybor City, South Tampa, Brandon, and Hillsborough County.