What to do if you are arrested in Rutherford County, Tennessee
1. Stay Calm & Be Polite
Even though the situation is stressful, keeping your cool helps. Arguing, resisting, or escalating the situation tends to make things worse.
Comply with basic lawful requests, but know there are limits (e.g. you don’t have to volunteer information beyond providing name and ID in some cases).
2. Know Your Rights
Right to Remain Silent: You don’t have to answer questions that could incriminate you. It’s okay to say, “I wish to remain silent until I talk to my attorney.”
Right to an Attorney: You have the right to consult with a lawyer before and during questioning. If you cannot afford one, you are entitled to a court-appointed attorney.
Right to Refuse Unreasonable Search: Law enforcement generally needs a warrant or probable cause to search you, your vehicle, or your property. If they don’t have one, you can (politely) refuse.
Miranda Warning: If you’re going to be questioned while in custody, officers are required to read you your Miranda rights. These include telling you that you have the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent.
3. Don’t Say Too Much
Avoid volunteering extra details, giving statements without a lawyer, or making self-incriminating admissions.
Delay answering detailed questions or narrating your side until after speaking with legal counsel.
4. Ask for a Lawyer Immediately
If you’re unsure what to do or feel pressured, explicitly ask for a lawyer and do not proceed with any interview or waive your right to one.
5. During Booking & Jail Time
You will likely be taken to the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center. rcsotn.com
You’ll go through the booking process: fingerprinting, photos, personal information. Be truthful about your identity.
You’ll also have the opportunity to make a phone call. Use it wisely — contact your bondsman, attorney or someone you trust. Don’t discuss details of the case with others who are not attorneys. Repeat: DO NOT DISCUSS YOUR CASE AT THE JAIL OR ON THE PHONE WITH ANYONE OTHER THAN YOUR ATTORNEY!!
6. Pretrial Release & Bond
Rutherford County has a Pretrial Services program. If your charge is a non‐violent misdemeanor, you may be eligible for non-monetary conditional release while you wait for court. Rutherford County
The judge or magistrate may set bail (bond) or release you on your own recognizance (basically, without paying bail), depending on the charge, your past history, flight risk, etc.
7. Collect Information & Take Notes
Write down everything you remember: names of officers, badge numbers, what was said, who saw what, where you were transported, etc.
If there are witnesses, try to get their names and contact info.
Keep copies of all paperwork you are given (charges, booking receipts, any bond documentation).
8. Don’t Forget Court Dates & Other Deadlines
Missing a court date, failing to comply with release conditions, or violating terms (curfew, drug testing, etc.) can lead to arrest or additional penalties.
You’ll need to appear in the correct court in Rutherford County on the scheduled date (General Sessions, Circuit Court, etc.).
9. Work with a Defense Attorney
Even for “minor” charges, legal representation is crucial. Attorney Whitney Raque will negotiate with prosecutors, challenge evidence, maybe get the charges reduced or dismissed.
Acting quickly matters—evidence can be lost, police reports written, witnesses’ memories fade.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change, and the application of law depends on specific facts. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for legal counsel. Reading this post does not create an attorney–client relationship. Contacting our office through this website, blog, or email does not create an attorney–client relationship unless and until a formal written agreement is signed. This blog discusses Tennessee law and procedures. Laws differ from state to state, and even county to county. If your case is outside Tennessee, consult a lawyer licensed in your jurisdiction. This post may be considered attorney advertising under Tennessee law. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts. Please do not send confidential information through this blog or website. Any information submitted through this site is not protected by attorney–client privilege.
