This is the first episode in our special series on firearm laws in New Hampshire. In this deep dive, Attorney Brian J. Stone unpacks everything from who can possess a firearm to when deadly force is legally justified. Whether you're a seasoned gun owner or just want to understand your rights, this series breaks it all down in plain English.

Arrested in New Hampshire? Don’t panic—get informed. In this episode of Law Talk NH: Unfiltered, criminal defense attorney Brian Stone breaks down everything you need to know about your first appearance in court, including:

• What a criminal complaint is and when it must be filed

• The difference between arrests with and without a warrant

• What a Gerstein hearing is (and why you won’t be part of it)

• How arraignments actually work, whether you’re out on bail or behind bars

• When and how you can waive arraignment

• What a probable cause hearing looks like in felony cases

• What to say (and not say) when you're in front of a judge

What makes a post-arrest confession admissible? We break down Miranda rights, what counts as interrogation, and how courts decide if a statement was voluntary—or coerced. Real cases, real law, in plain English.

In this episode, I break down what an arrest really means — how it differs from a stop, what probable cause is, and when police can legally take you into custody. I also cover why it’s important to stay calm and compliant, even if you believe the arrest is unfair. Whether you live in New Hampshire or just visit, these basics apply across the country.