When a friend of yours goes to jail, it is normal to go into panic mode. You may find yourself feeling helpless or overwhelmed. It is also common for people to worry for their friend’s safety, and of course, to want them back home as soon as possible. If this is your first time experiencing something like this, you will most likely not know where to begin to get your friend released.
Receive the Call
If someone you care about calls you from jail to tell you they have been arrested, do your best to calm them down. Let them know that you will do your best to get them out, and ask them if they need or have an attorney that you should call. You will need to make sure that you know your friend’s full name, the name of the jail they are in, their booking number, and the dollar amount of the bail to get them out.
Know Your Options
There are a couple of ways to get your loved one out of jail. These options include paying cash or check in the full amount of the bail, or, if you cannot afford the full price of the bail, you can hire a bail bondsman. If your friend is arrested late at night, you will want to find a Lancaster County bail bonds company that is open 24 hours a day.
Gather Information
There are several different types of bonds you may need to know about. Here is a list of the most common types of bail bonds:
- Appeal Bonds- the exact payment of the original judgment.
- Immigration Bonds- a payment that allows for an immigrant to return home during their deportation court case.
- Misdemeanor Bonds- a payment that can help a person avoid conviction or jail time for minor criminal infractions.
- Felony Bonds- a payment that can get a person out of jail during their felony court proceedings.
- Appearance Bonds- a payment made on the agreement that the person will appear for a future court date.
- PFA Bonds- a payment that is tax-exempt and issued by a local government.
- Surety Bonds- a payment that guarantees that a service will be performed.
Be Responsible
Once your loved one is released, their legal woes are not necessarily over. They will need to attend court hearings, possibly pay fees, complete community service, and may still face jail time. For your security, only sign a bail bond for someone who you know and trust to take care of their affairs. It is important that you know this person well and that you trust them. It is probably in your best interest to talk to mutual friends or family members to ensure that you are making the right choice.
