Getting a phone call that a loved one is in jail is stressful. Families are frequently paralyzed and make hasty decisions without understanding the California legal system. This panic can result in serious mistakes that can be time and money consuming. Knowing what to avoid, ahead of time, means you can easily sidestep these problems. Here are 5 of the most common pitfalls families encounter in their quest to get their loved one released from jail.
1. Waiting Too Long to Seek Professional Help
The most frequent mistake families make is trying to navigate the jail system alone. Jails in California are busy and complex facilities. By not seeking professional help, you allow your loved one to stay in a holding cell for longer. Reaching out immediately to experienced professionals like Balboa Bail Bonds ensures that you have expert guidance from the very beginning. A licensed agent can locate your family member in the system and start the release paperwork instantly. Prompt assistance will help to shorten the entire release process and minimize stress.
2. Not Understanding Costs and Payment Plans
Lots of people believe that they should be paying the full bail amount upfront in cash to the court. This is an expense that most families can’t afford. Usually, a company will charge a percentage of the total bail amount as a fee. Some families may believe that this fee can be reimbursed, or they may not inquire about flexible payment alternatives. Before signing anything, make sure that your agent breaks down the cost of the exact nature of the service before you assume any costs. Good companies may even have a payment plan with no interest at all to make the financial aspect more manageable.
3. Providing Incorrect Information to the Agent
It’s easy to get in wrong information when hurriedly completing forms. Giving inaccurate details about the defendant causes delay in the release procedure. If you know their full legal name, date of birth, and where they were arrested, please let us know. When the agent guesses the details, he may reach out to the wrong facility or may file wrong documents. Make sure you take a breath and double-check all personal information before your first call to the agent.
4. Discussing Case Details Over Jail Phone Lines
So, when your loved one calls from jail, you’re entitled to ask, “what’s going on?”. Talking about the details of the arrest, however, is a big error over the telephone. All calls from a California jail are taped and monitored by police. Anything said during these calls can be admissible evidence in court. Do not discuss anything except for the fact that you need to find out where they are and make plans for the bail money.
5. Failing to Ensure the Defendant Attends Court
The bail process does not end when your loved one walks out of jail. When you sign a bail agreement you are agreeing to see to it that the defendant shows up at every court date. The judge will issue a new warrant for their arrest if they don’t attend court. The court will also demand the entire amount of the bail. It is important for families to ensure that they follow the court schedule and arrange dependable transportation so that the defendant does not miss any court appearances.
Conclusion
It is never a simple matter for any family to deal with when a loved one gets arrested. California law is very strict and even the smallest of mistakes can cause longer jail terms and financial problems. You can effectively protect your loved one by handling things promptly, knowing the fees involved, delivering the proper information, listening to what you’re saying on the phone, and checking out court dates. Here are 5 common pitfalls to avoid during the bail process that will help ensure a smooth ride and a quick return home.
