First steps
If you are detained, stay calm and ask for the reason, legal ground and actual time of the measure. Preserve copies or details of any documents you receive.
Legal assistance
State clearly that you want to contact a lawyer. Do not sign a document whose content has not been explained or which you do not understand. Ask for a relative or another person you name to be notified; the procedure for notice is governed by procedural law.
Time limits and a complaint
The duration of detention, judicial control and access to a defence lawyer depend on procedural status and the applicable law. Article 18 leaves detention periods to law and does not specify a single number of hours. To challenge an unlawful action, record the time, officials' details and documents.
This material is general orientation, not case-specific legal advice. Contact a lawyer or legal-aid organisation promptly for a concrete case.