What Happens After an Arrest? How Bail Bonds Work in California

Derek Contreras
December 31, 2024
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5 min read

What Happens After You Are Arrested? How Does Bail Bond Work in California?

It may seem like something that only happens to gangsters, but you’d be surprised when you find yourself arrested. It’s essential to know your Miranda rights and understand what to do after an arrest. Generally, when you’re arrested, the law enforcement officers will take you into custody and read your rights. Arrest can also occur for questioning if there is reasonable suspicion that you participated in a crime, knowingly or unknowingly.

What Are Miranda Rights?

For those wondering, Miranda Rights are the rights you are entitled to when arrested. The police officer will inform you of these rights before taking you into custody. They include:

  • The right to remain silent (anything you say can be used against you in court)
  • The right to an attorney (if you cannot afford one, one will be appointed for you)

Miranda Rights do not apply if you voluntarily provide information to the police.

What is Bail?

Bail is a financial guarantee that you will appear in court when scheduled. The amount varies based on factors that ensure you’ll show up for your court date. If you cannot afford bail, you may have to remain in custody until your court hearing. In such cases, you may request a bail reduction.

What to Do After You’ve Been Arrested

While being arrested may feel like a distant possibility, it’s crucial to be prepared. Knowing a reliable bail bond company in advance, such as those offering bail bonds in Orange County, can help you avoid spending the night in jail. Having the contact information of bail bond companies, including their address and phone number, can be a lifesaver in such situations.

By hiring a reputable bail bond company, you can often avoid staying in custody even if you can’t afford the full bail amount. Remember that delays in paperwork can delay your release and potentially cause the court to revoke your bail.

Honoring Bail Bonds

It’s important to honor the terms of your bail bond. Attend any required counseling sessions and make all bail payments on time. Failure to comply could result in your co-signer facing trouble or being arrested. By sticking to the conditions of your bail, you can avoid further complications.

Having strong support from family, friends, and a trusted bail bond company can help you successfully navigate your time out on bail. Once you know what to do after an arrest, the process can be much less stressful.

What to Do if You’re Pulled Over in California with Marijuana

California has liberal marijuana laws, but violating them can lead to serious consequences. It’s legal to possess up to 28 grams (about an ounce), which is considered a misdemeanor akin to a traffic ticket. However, possessing more than 28 grams can lead to arrest.

When You Get Pulled Over:

If you’re pulled over, stay calm. Even if you have something to worry about, staying composed is essential. Do not move your hands unless instructed by the officer, and make sure to inform them of the location of any documents they may request.

Remember, the smell of marijuana alone is not enough for an officer to search your car. Avoid doing anything that could give them probable cause, such as arguing or disobeying instructions.

If you’re arrested for having more than 28 grams, remain polite, provide your name and address, and request an attorney.

Jailhouse Bail Chart and Bail Hearings:

After your arrest, you may have a bail amount set either through a jailhouse bail chart or at a bail hearing. A jailhouse bail chart provides standard bail amounts based on common crimes. If bail is set, you can either pay it in full or opt for a bail bond.

How Do I Make Bail?

Bail is an assurance that you’ll appear in court when required. You can handle bail in two ways:

  • Paying it in full
  • Getting a bail bond (a contract between the accused and a bail bondsman ensuring that they will appear in court)

With a bail bond, you’ll sign a contract with the bondsman, who may request collateral or a co-signer. The bondsman will then provide the bail amount, and you will be released. However, you must attend all court hearings, or risk forfeiting the collateral.

Finding a Trustworthy Bail Bondsman:

If you need a bail bond, make sure to choose a company you trust. In Orange County, you can count on OnCall Bail Bonds to help you out. With offices across California and a network of agents nationwide, OnCall Bail Bonds offers reliable, professional service without treating you like a criminal.

Have a Friend Who Was Arrested?

If a family member or friend has been arrested, don’t panic. Get in touch with a bail bonds company as soon as possible. You can help them by finding out when their arraignment or bail hearing is scheduled and how much bail is required. If you cannot cover the bail amount yourself, a bail bond company can help you find a solution.

Key Takeaways for Arrests in California:

  • Stay calm and be polite.
  • Stand up for your rights but avoid arguing or fighting with officers.
  • Request an attorney immediately.
  • Contact a reliable bail bond company as soon as you can.

This article is an opinion piece and should not be considered legal advice. Always consult an attorney for legal matters.