What do I do after a loved one has been arrested in Los Angeles?

It’s a feeling nobody ever wants to experience. A moment of complete horror. Your heart sinks into your stomach and you think you might throw up. You have just received one of the worst calls imaginable: your friend or family member has been arrested. What do you do?

This is definitely a difficult situation to be thrown into, especially if it’s your son or daughter. But the reality is that others have been in the same position before, have made it through, and so will you.

The first thing to do is hire a Los Angeles bail bonds business to post the bail for the release of the defendant. California State law dictates that the price of a bail bond in Los Angeles be set at 10% of the total bail, so only use reputable bail bondsman who don’t charge more or offer a discount. The sooner you contact the bail bond company, the faster they can work on posting bail for release.

When you sign a contract with the bail bondsman, you become the “indemnitor.” This means that you are in charge of paying the 10% bail fee, either up front or as a financing plan, and you are responsible for ensuring that the defendant attends all scheduled court dates. If they skip one or flee, then you may be held financially liable.

If you can afford to pay the entire bail up front, then you do not need to use a bail bonds agent. This is called a cash bond and must be paid in full. The entire amount is returned to the person after the sentencing, regardless of the verdict, assuming the defendant has attended all court appointments. If you are confident in the reliability of the individual, you can use a cash bond.

Next you will want to consult an attorney. You can search online for a lawyer in the area or use the public defendant provided by the court. Even if you choose not to use an attorney, it is best to hear what they have to say. Most provide free consultations, in which they can share some details of your case.

It is important to remember that although this is difficult for you and your loved one, you will be able to overcome it with a level head and careful planning. Good luck.