Getting arrested is a frightening and stressful experience—especially if you’re not aware of your legal rights or what steps to take next. Whether the arrest is due to a misunderstanding, a complaint, or a criminal charge, knowing how to respond calmly and legally is crucial for protecting yourself.
If you or someone you know is arrested in Chattogram, this guide explains what to do immediately after the arrest, how to secure bail, and how to contact legal help.
Table of Contents
Stay Calm and Do Not Resist Arrest
The first and most important step is to remain calm. Resisting arrest—whether verbally or physically—can escalate the situation and lead to additional charges, such as “obstruction of justice” or “assault on a police officer.”
You have the right to:
- Ask why you are being arrested
- Request to see the warrant (if it’s a non-cognizable offense)
- Remain silent until you speak to a lawyer
Do not argue, run, or physically confront the officers. It is better to comply and sort things out legally through proper channels.
Know Your Legal Rights Upon Arrest
Under the Constitution of Bangladesh and relevant criminal laws, you are guaranteed several rights when arrested:
a. Right to Be Informed of the Grounds
The arresting officer must inform you of the reason for arrest in a language you understand.
b. Right to Legal Representation
You have the right to consult a lawyer of your choice before being interrogated.
c. Right to Remain Silent
You are not obligated to answer any police questions without legal counsel.
d. Right to Be Presented Before a Magistrate
You must be produced before a Magistrate within 24 hours of your arrest (excluding travel time).
e. Protection from Torture or Custodial Abuse
Police are legally prohibited from using force or torture in custody. Any such behavior is a violation of human rights and can be challenged in court.
Inform a Trusted Person or Family Member
If arrested, ask the police to inform your family or lawyer immediately. If you are not allowed to make a phone call, request the officer to notify someone on your behalf.
In many cases, a quick call to a lawyer or legal aid organization can make a big difference in securing your release or preparing your defense.
Ask for Bail (If Applicable)
Depending on the nature of the offense, you may be eligible for bail. In Bangladesh, there are two types of offenses:
a. Bailable Offenses
These are usually minor offenses (e.g., petty theft, defamation) where bail is a right, and the police or magistrate can grant it quickly.
b. Non-Bailable Offenses
These include serious crimes like murder, rape, drug trafficking, or terrorism, where bail is not a right but can still be granted under the court’s discretion.
Contact a lawyer immediately to apply for anticipatory or regular bail. If you’re arrested in Chattogram, your legal counsel will likely file a bail application at the Chattogram District Court or, in urgent cases, at the High Court Division in Dhaka.
Legal Aid Options in Chattogram
If you do not have a private lawyer, you may contact:
- Chattogram Legal Aid Office
- District Bar Association’s Legal Aid Committee
- Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST)
- Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK)
These organizations can help arrange free legal assistance, especially in cases of wrongful arrest, domestic violence, or poverty-related injustice.
What to Do If the Arrest is Illegal
If you believe the arrest is unlawful (e.g., no warrant, mistaken identity, false charges), your lawyer may:
- File a Writ Petition for illegal detention under Article 102 of the Constitution
- Request habeas corpus relief from the High Court
- File a petition for quashing of the FIR or charge-sheet
Illegal arrest may also be challenged under Section 54 of the CrPC, which police often misuse to detain individuals without strong evidence.
Court Procedure After Arrest
Once you’re presented in court (within 24 hours):
- The magistrate will hear the police and decide whether to release you, remand you to custody, or send you to jail.
- Your lawyer can submit a bail petition and argue on your behalf.
- If remanded, the court may order police custody (for investigation) or judicial custody (in jail).
You cannot be detained indefinitely without charge. If the charge sheet is not submitted within the prescribed time, the case can be challenged.
Common Arrest-Related Situations in Chattogram
- Drug or narcotics cases under the Narcotics Control Act
- Political detentions or protests under special powers
- Family disputes (dowry, assault, domestic abuse)
- Cheque dishonor and loan default cases
- Digital Security Act arrests for online content
These cases may involve specific legal complexities, so it’s vital to consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Chattogram immediately.
How Chattogram Law Office Can Help
At Chattogram Law Office, our legal team provides emergency and regular support in:
- Criminal defense representation
- Bail hearings and appeals
- Police station visits and FIR assistance
- Challenging illegal arrest or remand
- Courtroom defense in Chattogram and Dhaka
- Digital and white-collar crime defense
- Women’s and juveniles’ legal protection
We’re available 24/7 for urgent legal support in arrests or detention-related cases.
Tips to Remember If Arrested
- Stay respectful but firm
- Don’t sign any blank or unclear documents
- Avoid making confessions without a lawyer
- Note the officer’s badge number or ID if possible
- Immediately consult a criminal lawyer
Final Thoughts
Being arrested is not the end of the road—it’s the beginning of your legal defense. What you do in the first few hours can shape the outcome of your case. By knowing your rights, remaining calm, and getting legal support quickly, you give yourself the best chance to protect your freedom and reputation.
Whether you’re facing arrest in Chattogram due to a criminal allegation, civil dispute, or police misunderstanding, timely legal action is your best defense.