How long may police hold suspects before filing charges?

If the police have probable cause to believe a person has committed a crime but have not yet brought formal charges, they may detain him or her in custody only for a short period of time (generally 24 to 48 hours). After this short period the police must release the person or bring formal charges and take him or her before a judge. However, he or she may be rearrested at a later date if the police obtain sufficient evidence.

>>How does one report a crime?
>>How do the police investigate crimes?
>>How long may police hold suspects before filing charges?
>>What is probable cause?
>>If the police stop me for drunk driving, what tests may they force me to take?
>>What procedures must the police follow while making an arrest?
>>What are Miranda rights?
>>What is an interrogation?
>>Is it wise to have a lawyer present during interrogations?

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