Being arrested
If you are being arrested, you have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. Use them.
This is legal information and a self-help tool, not legal advice. It was not prepared by an attorney. Laws change and every situation is different — talk to a licensed attorney before you act on anything here.
"I am going to remain silent. I want a lawyer."
Do not explain, argue, or try to talk your way out of it. Anything you say can be used against you.
Ask if you are being detained or if you are free to go.
If you cannot afford a lawyer, one must be provided for criminal charges (6th Amendment). In the Fourth Circuit that is the Public Defender.
Try to remember badge numbers, patrol-car numbers, and what happened. Write it down as soon as you can.
Source: General Fifth/Sixth Amendment guidance.