Reality check: foreign internment is a complex area
Some good advice:
a) If you are arrested overseas, you may face a significant period of detention before your case comes to trial.
b) The presence of illegal drugs detected in blood or urine tests is considered possession. You may also be charged with possessing drugs if trace amounts are found on your body, bloodstream, clothes or luggage. Amounts of 0.05 grams or less can lead to a conviction for drug possession and lengthy minimum mandatory prison sentences.
c) get a competent lawyer who won't offend the detaining party by saying their laws are ridiculous (even if you think they are); make sure they are familiar with international law, sovereignty, foreign judicial process, AND mindful of cultural sensitivities (what is and isn't offensive in that culture);
d) establish a good rapport with the consular officers in the field, and with your point of contact through your relevant foreign affairs department;
e) work with people who have proven experience to develop a sound strategic plan away from the media, utilising the support and advice of known professionals who have extensive knowledge and key contacts in foreign relations,
f) avoid the tabloids as best you can. Some might offer you lucrative media deals or a spot on prime time television. All offers from the media should be directed to those experienced professionals who are working to secure your release. Often the media can impede negatively on a case, particularly if comments are negative towards the Indonesian authorities and their judicial process.
g) work with them to engage the foreign government with dignity and respect, after all, they are best able to make approaches without the emotional attachments that can derail negotiations early on;
h) understand that these processes are complex and not easily resolved. Understand the reality of what your government can and cannot do for you. Your Government can assist you through the consul but they cannot provide a lawyer to you and they cannot get you out of jail. Think of it this way, if you were arrested in your home country, you would be subjected to due process. The same rules apply when you are arrested overseas. You must go through the judicial process and it cannot be interfered with by your Government.
i) your government cannot conduct investigations relating to any alleged offence. This is why you need a lawyer!
j) the Indonesian legal system is a Civil Law system rather than a Common Law system (The Common Law System is found chiefly in Australia, England, America and other former British colonies). Its procedures are entirely different to those in Australia, so don't confuse the two thinking that what might constitute 'reasonable doubt' or 'minor offense' back home will be similar in Indonesia. Penalties for crimes in Indonesia are usually harsh.
k) saying you didn't know that drugs were in your bag is not a sound legal defence in any court. If you cannot PROVE your case then chances are you will be convicted.
l) keep a low profile and make sure you have support in place for the long haul. Things move slowly in Indonesia.
You attract more bees with honey than you do with vinegar.
