Getting arrested can be one of the most stressful moments in anyone’s life — especially if you don’t know your legal rights.
Many people panic, say the wrong things, or sign documents they don’t understand.
At Wukla Diary, we believe awareness can protect your freedom.
This guide explains what you should — and shouldn’t — do if you ever face arrest in Pakistan.
1. First and Foremost: Stay Calm and Cooperative
Resisting or arguing with the police can make things worse.
You have the right to remain silent — use it wisely.
Stay polite, ask clear questions, and avoid any confrontation that could be misinterpreted.
Remember: Being arrested doesn’t automatically mean you are guilty.
It simply means the police want to question or investigate you regarding a case.
2. Ask for the Reason of Arrest
Under Article 10 of the Constitution of Pakistan, no one can be detained without being told the reason for arrest.
You have every right to ask:
“Under what charge or law am I being arrested?”
The police are legally bound to inform you about the accusation and the section of law applied.
If they refuse, this itself becomes a violation of your fundamental rights.
3. You Have the Right to Legal Representation
You have a constitutional right to contact a lawyer or advocate immediately.
You can call your family or a trusted legal advisor — they cannot deny this.
If you don’t have a lawyer, the court can assign one to represent you.
At Wukla Diary, our criminal defense lawyers are available 24/7 to provide legal help during police custody or court hearings.
4. Police Custody Rules: What They Can and Cannot Do
While in custody, the police must follow specific legal procedures:
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They cannot keep you detained for more than 24 hours without producing you before a magistrate.
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They must record your arrest and time in the daily diary.
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They cannot physically harm, threaten, or torture you for confession.
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You have the right to medical examination if injured or mistreated.
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Female suspects can only be arrested and searched in the presence of a lady police officer.
If any of these rights are violated, your lawyer can file a complaint or petition for immediate action.
5. Bail and Release Process
Most offenses in Pakistan are bailable, which means you can be released until trial.
Here’s what typically happens:
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Bail Application: Your lawyer files a bail request with the magistrate or sessions court.
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Surety Bond: The court may ask for surety — someone guaranteeing you’ll appear for future hearings.
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Bail Grant: Once approved, you are released with or without conditions.
For non-bailable offenses, the lawyer can still request bail based on the circumstances or lack of evidence.
6. Rights During Investigation
During questioning or investigation:
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You are not bound to confess or give self-incriminating statements.
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You can remain silent on any question that might harm your defense.
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You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect at all times.
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The police must conduct all questioning in a recorded and transparent manner.
If they try to obtain a confession through force or pressure, that confession becomes inadmissible in court.
7. If Someone You Know Is Arrested
If a family member or friend is arrested:
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Immediately contact a criminal lawyer or legal aid service.
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Go to the nearest police station to confirm their detention.
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Ask for the FIR number and case section under which they’re held.
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Submit an application to meet the accused and check their wellbeing.
The earlier you involve a lawyer, the faster you can ensure their safety and legal protection.
8. How Wukla Diary Can Help
At Wukla Diary, we understand how critical those first few hours after an arrest can be.
Our legal experts specialize in:
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Bail applications and early release
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Court representation and legal defense
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FIR and police complaint verification
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Human rights violation reporting
We handle every case with confidentiality, respect, and urgency — because your freedom matters.
9. Final Thoughts
No one should face legal trouble without understanding their rights.
Whether it’s an unjust arrest, a misunderstanding, or a criminal charge, knowledge and quick action can change the outcome.
