When a loved one is arrested, it can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience. Understanding the bail bond process can help ease some of the confusion and anxiety. At Bliss Bail Bonds, we’re happy to answer any of your questions about this process. Here are five key steps in the bail bond process that will help guide you through securing the release of your loved one from jail. 

Arrest and Booking

The bail bond process begins with an arrest. After being arrested, the individual is taken to a local jail where they go through a booking process. This involves recording personal details, taking fingerprints, photographing the individual (mugshot), and processing the criminal charges. Once booking is complete, the defendant is placed in a holding cell or jail until they can appear before a judge.

Bail is Set

After booking, a judge will determine the bail amount during a bail hearing. The bail amount is influenced by factors such as the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood of them fleeing before trial. In some cases, the judge may deny bail altogether, especially for serious offenses. If bail is set, the defendant or their loved ones must come up with the necessary funds to secure release.

Contact a Bail Bondsman

If the bail amount is too high for the defendant or their family to pay out of pocket, they can contact a bail bondsman for assistance. A bail bondsman will post bail on behalf of the defendant in exchange for a non-refundable fee, which is typically around 10% of the total bail amount. 

Posting Bail

Once the bail bondsman is hired, they will post the bail with the court. The court will then issue an order to release the defendant from jail. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the jail’s procedures and the time it takes to process the bail. After release, the defendant is required to follow certain conditions, such as attending all court appearances and avoiding illegal activities.

Court Appearances

After being released on bail, the defendant must attend all scheduled court appearances until their case is resolved. Failing to appear in court can result in the forfeiture of bail, meaning the court will keep the money paid for bail, and a warrant will be issued for the defendant’s arrest. If the defendant appears as required and follows the conditions set by the court, the bail will be returned at the end of the trial, minus any fees.

24/7 Bail Bonds in Norwalk, CA

If you need a bail bond in Norwalk or Whittier, CA, contact Bliss Bail Bonds at (855) 631-2772. At our nearby bail bond agency, we’ll work hard to secure the fastest release possible. Feel free to give us a call to ask any questions about the bail-posting process!