Have you ever seen in the TV where a person is suspected in committing a crime and the police arrest him/her? Have you ever wondered what are their rights upon their arrest?
If you have watch in the TV or some drama maybe there is some of the rights that you’re aware of which is….
- Rights to be informed of grounds of arrest
The Police who arrest you must inform you the grounds/reason why they arrest you. Failure to give reasons may amount to the arrest itself being illegal.
- Right to communicate with lawyer and relative
Once you are arrested, you have the right to contact your lawyer and relative informing them that you are arrested.
- Rights to seek legal counsel
You may seek for a lawyer for advice once you’re arrested.
- Rights to apply for writ of habeas corpus
In the event that, you are illegally or improperly detained you can file a writ of habeas corpus to the high court.
- Right to be brought before a Magistrate within 24 hours
If the police decide to remand you, you must be brought before a Magistrate within 24 hours.
- Right to remedies for wrongful arrest and detention
You may initiate a civil action for damages in the event the arrest is wrongful or illegal.
