As a legal expert with a focus on criminal justice and civil liberties, I often encounter questions regarding the duration for which law enforcement can detain an individual without charging them or allowing them to make a phone call. It's a complex issue that varies significantly by jurisdiction and the specific circumstances surrounding the arrest. However, I'll provide a general overview based on common practices and legal standards, particularly focusing on the United States, as the question seems to be framed in the context of American law.
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures, and it requires that any arrest be supported by probable cause. When an individual is arrested, they are typically taken into custody and may be detained for a period of time before they are either charged with a crime or released.

Under normal circumstances, **police can hold a person for up to 24 hours** before they must either charge the individual with a crime or let them go. This period allows the police to conduct an investigation, gather evidence, and prepare any necessary paperwork for formal charges.

However, there are exceptions to this general rule. If the individual is suspected of having committed a serious crime, such as murder or a major drug offense, the police can seek a court order to extend the detention period. In such cases, it's not uncommon for the detention to be extended to 36 or even 96 hours.

In the context of national security, the USA PATRIOT Act and other anti-terrorism legislation provide for additional detention periods. If an individual is arrested under the Terrorism Act, they can be held without charge for an extended period, which may last up to 14 days. This extended period is intended to allow for a more thorough investigation into the nature of the alleged terrorist activities.

It's important to note that during this detention period, individuals have the right to make a phone call, typically after they have been booked into jail. This right is not absolute and can be delayed under certain circumstances, such as when it may interfere with an ongoing investigation.

The Miranda rights also come into play after an arrest. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. If an individual cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for them. It's crucial for anyone who has been arrested to understand and exercise these rights.

In conclusion, while the general rule is that an individual can be held for up to 24 hours without charge, there are circumstances under which this period can be extended. It's always advisable for anyone who has been arrested to seek legal counsel as soon as possible to ensure their rights are protected.

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The police can hold you for up to 24 hours before they have to charge you with a crime or release you. They can apply to hold you for up to 36 or 96 hours if you're suspected of a serious crime, eg murder. You can be held without charge for up to 14 days If you're arrested under the Terrorism Act.read more >>