Six Steps to Follow if Arrested: A Survival Guide

We understand that being arrested is a very traumatic and upsetting experience for most people. Penny Bail Bonds is here to help you through it! Here is what you should do if you or a friend (or relative) has been arrested:

Step 1: Call Penny Bail Bonds - 800-838-3278
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We will meet you at a convenient location to arrange bail anywhere in Southern California.

Step 2: Don't talk to anyone except a lawyer about the situation
It is natural to want to talk to other people about the arrest or your feelings about it. Avoid this at all costs since people you talk to could alter be called as witnesses against the defendant. Talk only to your attorney about the case.

Step 3: Find the right Attorney
Finding the right attorney for you and your case is not an easy task. If you need a public defender, this should be brought up at your arraignment. The court will immediately appoint one for you, if you qualify. To find a private attorney, start by calling the County Bar Association for a referral. You might also contact an attorney you know and ask for a referral for someone who specializes in your kind of case.

Step 4: When you wait for your court appearance
After you are released from jail awaiting your court appearance, it is important that you lead a very law-abiding life and do not break any more laws. It often helps your case to correct problems in your life that caused your arrest. It also helps to do whatever you need to do to convince the court that you are now trying to be a good citizen and improve your life. For example, enroll in anger management if you anticipate the court will want you to do that. If unemployed, enroll in school or find a job prior to your court appearance. If the charge involves your treatment of children enroll in a good parenting program. If alcohol or drug abuse is an issue, immediately enroll in a rehabilitation program. For a list of resources, visit www.daretorecover.org.

Step 5: Behave appropriately in court
Your physical appearance in court can influence the outcome of your case. Be sure to dress appropriately. Tank - tops and sandals are not appropriate. Don't bring your children to court, if this can be avoided. If you must bring your children, bring snacks or meals for them. When standing before the court, be sure to remain in control of your attitude and emotions at all times. Sarcasm or negative attitude can only hurt you and your case. Do not discuss you case in hallways or in the bathroom, unless it is with your attorney. After all, you never know who else is listening.

Step 6: Preparing For Jail Time
If you are sentenced to jail time, it will be much easier for you and your family if you prepare ahead of time emotionally and financially for your ordeal. Some practical things to do that will help include the following:

Organize your finances prior to going to jail.
Take a copy of your medical records, medications and prescriptions to the jailers so that you can continue any medications and medical care you may need.
If you wear eye glasses, take an extra pair, as glasses frequently get broken in jail.
Make arrangements with any storage units you have to continue storage of your items.
Switch magazine subscriptions to your jail address.
Get needed dental work done prior to incarceration, if possible.
Give power of attorney to your spouse or partner for all business and financial matters.
Update your driver's license before going to jail.
Women should arrange for child care and give temporary guardianship and authority for medical care to a trusted family member or friend.
Consider getting brief counseling to deal with the stress of incarceration or having to live without your partner or relative for awhile. You can talk freely to a clergy-person or a mental health professional because they are bound to confidentiality and cannot legally discuss what you tell them to anyone.
Decide ahead of time how often you will call out from jail, because this can get very expensive. All calls from jail have to be collect calls through a company other than the regular phone company. This other phone company is charges higher rates, so your collect bill can add up very quickly.

You will want "extra's" in jail - things that are considered "essential" on the outside but have to be bought inside at the commissary. This includes food items, toiletries, etc. To purchase these items, you or someone else can put money "on the books". This serves as a credit card so you can purchase needed items. It is best to budget this amount prior to going to jail so that the "ground rules" are in place - this avoids conflict and misunderstanding.