The arrest is just the beginning in a long adventure into America’s legal system for millions of citizens each year. Although the process may seem confusing, there are some hints you can use to help yourself move through the process. From arrest to bail, once you understand how the structure works, you will know which steps come next.

Procedure

If you have your phone before you are formally arrested, call a family member or friend and ask them to contact a bail bonds Allentown PA company about securing bail. This will speed the process up and can help you get released more quickly.

Detention

Arrest often begins with the officer reading your Miranda Rights. You will be transported to jail and asked to surrender your personal possessions. Booking comes next with fingerprints and photographs. Sometimes the officers will question you in a room with recording equipment, but sometimes you will be placed in a holding cell with other individuals.

Meeting

After being processed, you will wait for your meeting with the magistrate, judge, or judge pro tem. The bailiff will read the charges, you will be asked to plead, and the judge may ask you or your attorney some pertinent questions. The magistrate will then assign a bail amount to your case, and you will return to your waiting room or holding cell.

Release

Once you know your bail amount, a bail bonds agent or a surety bond company can secure your release. You can pay 10% of the full amount by using property, cash, or credit. As soon as your bail bonds agent files the paperwork with the court, you will be released after signing documents stating you agree to appear back at court on the required dates.

Although the legal system from arrest to bail may appear confusing at first, it doesn’t have to be. Once you know what to expect, it all makes sense.