The Mexican legal system differs from the U.S. system in several ways. It does not provide for trials by jury; rather, a judge decides the fate of the accused. The Mexican system also does not provide the writ of habeas corpus, although it does stipulate that you must be charged within 72 hours of incarceration or set free. Arrested foreigners rarely are granted bail, so once you are in jail, it can be very difficult to get out. You do have the right to notify your consulate if you are detained. You can also contact the local state tourism offices for help in emergencies.