What Should You Do If You’re Arrested for a Felony in Utah?

Being arrested for a felony in Utah is a serious and frightening experience. Felony charges can carry severe consequences, including prison time, heavy fines, and long-term damage to your reputation, career, and future. What you do in the hours and days following an arrest can significantly impact the outcome of your case.



If you or a loved one has been arrested for a felony in Utah, taking the right steps immediately is critical.

1. Remain Silent and Do Not Speak to Police

After a felony arrest, you have the constitutional right to remain silent. Law enforcement officers may appear friendly or suggest that cooperating will help your case—but anything you say can and will be used against you.

You are not required to explain yourself, answer questions, or provide a statement. Politely state that you are invoking your right to remain silent and that you want to speak with an attorney.

2. Ask for a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately

One of the most important steps after a felony arrest is contacting an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Early legal representation allows your attorney to step in before critical mistakes are made.

A felony defense lawyer can:

• Communicate with law enforcement on your behalf
• Protect your rights during questioning
• Begin investigating the case immediately
• Identify potential violations or weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence

3. Do Not Consent to Searches

Police may ask for permission to search your vehicle, home, phone, or personal belongings. You have the right to refuse consent. Even if officers believe they have evidence, consenting to a search can strengthen the prosecution’s case.

An attorney can later challenge improper searches and potentially suppress unlawfully obtained evidence.

4. Be Careful About What You Say to Anyone

Avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney. Conversations with friends, family, or cellmates may not be protected and could later be used against you. Social media posts, text messages, and phone calls can also become evidence.

Your attorney-client communications, however, are confidential.

5. Understand the Charges You Are Facing

Felony charges in Utah range from third-degree felonies to first-degree felonies, each carrying different penalties. These charges may involve allegations such as assault, drug offenses, domestic violence, weapons charges, theft, or white-collar crimes.

An experienced defense attorney can explain:

• The exact charges filed
• Potential penalties
• Whether charges may be reduced or dismissed
• Your legal options moving forward

6. Attend All Court Hearings and Follow Legal Advice

Missing court dates or violating release conditions can result in additional charges or a warrant for your arrest. It is essential to attend all required hearings and follow your attorney’s guidance closely.

Early compliance and a strong defense strategy can make a meaningful difference in how your case progresses.

Why Early Legal Representation Matters

Felony cases are high-stakes and fast-moving. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and early statements can shape the prosecution’s narrative. The sooner an attorney gets involved, the more opportunities there may be to protect your rights and challenge the case against you.

Felony Defense Attorney in Murray, Utah

At Veronica K. McDougal, P.C., attorney Veronica McDougal provides aggressive, detail-oriented felony defense for clients in Murray and throughout Utah. With over a decade of criminal defense experience, Veronica carefully examines every aspect of the case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and fight for the best possible outcome.

She represents clients facing a wide range of felony charges and is committed to standing by your side from day one.

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

If you have been arrested for a felony in Utah, do not face the legal system alone. The steps you take now matter.