Following an arrest is a stressful time. If you’ve never been arrested before, you may feel even more intimidated by what might happen. Knowing the process can help ease some of that stress.

The Bail Hearing

After an arrest, a person will go through booking at the police department. Once booked, the person will be in police custody until a court hearing. This court hearing normally takes place within 48 hours. Bail hearings happen quickly. A judge will decide whether the defendant can post bail until the trial date or for the duration of his or her trial. When it comes to bail, normally it is completely up to the judge whether he or she offers it.

The Bail Process

In establishing bail, the judge will look at a number of different factors. He or she will look into the defendant’s background, character and financial resources. In addition, he or she will take into consideration the charges and whether or not he or she has been in the court system before. Once bail is established, the defendant can either pay or use a bail bond company Beaver County PA civilians rely on. The bail process itself is relatively straightforward. Normally, a bail bondsman will help walk the family or friends through the process to post bail for the defendant.

Follow Up Court Date

When you post bail, this isn’t the end. You still have to make sure to show up at the assigned court date. There may also be other stipulations involved with your bail. For instance, you may be required to seek counselling or to attend AA meetings, depending on the nature of the charge.

When it comes to an arrest, this is a stressful time for the defendant and the families involved. It’s important to have a basic understanding of how the process works in advance.