When your loved one is arrested, the easiest way to figure out what happens next is to see if bail has been set, what kind of bond they can use, and what needs to be done for release. In cases where a financial bond is needed but the family isn’t able or willing to post the full amount with the court, a bail bonds professional can help obtain a surety bond.

There will be many steps involved: booking, setting the bond, contacting the bail bond agency, completing the necessary paperwork, posting the bond, and waiting for the jail to release.

If you find yourself in the midst of a first-time arrest, knowledge about what to expect can save you a lot of trouble.

What Happens After an Arrest?

A simple arrest does not automatically ensure that the individual will be kept in jail until the case is finished.

The arrestee will generally be processed at the jail or detention center after his or her arrest. It may consist of identification, fingerprinting, photography, documenting the nature of the alleged charges, and registering him or her into the system of the detention center.

Next, the process depends upon the facts of each particular case and court procedures.

Concerning Colorado, bond hearings and considerations about pretrial release may include a court proceeding. In the Colorado Judicial Branch, there are explanations about bail and bond and about surety bond when a commercial bondsperson may be involved.

The typical first steps of the procedure are as follows:

  • Arrest and transfer to a detention center,
  • Booking and processing,
  • Determination or bond hearing,
  • Review of release conditions,
  • Posting of bond,
  • Jail processing and release.

Of course, the exact timeline will depend on the jurisdiction and specifics of the case.

What If the Defendant Misses Court?

The act of missing court must never be taken lightly.

In addition to facing legal and monetary repercussions for missing the court hearing, you could lose your bond.

You will also have to deal with financial repercussions in the process of executing your bail bond agreement.

Prevention is always the best policy.

Here is what should be done after release from jail to ensure that the defendant:

  • Is aware of the court date
  • Has adequate transport
  • Has all contact information up to date
  • Is aware of all the terms of his/her release
  • Keeps in touch with his/her lawyer
  • Is aware of all legal papers

Choosing the Right Bail Bond Company

When people try to find bail bonds Denver, the one thing they want is someone who will be able to tell them what comes next without adding to the already existing stress.

It is important, but transparency is even more so.

Here are some questions you might consider putting to a potential Bail Bond Company:

  • Are your bonding agents licensed or registered appropriately?
  • What will I need to pay today?
  • Are there any extra charges?
  • Do I have to provide any collateral?
  • What are my duties as an indemnitor?
  • What will happen if the defendant doesn’t show up in court?
  • How does the release process work here?
  • Will I get copies of all the signed paperwork?
  • To whom will I turn in case I have any further questions?

It doesn’t mean that you should go to the one that offers the most.

How PDQ Bail Bonds Assists Families in Understanding the Process

PDQ Bail Bonds is a family-owned business operating in Colorado and specializing in offering bail bonds to Denver and nearby counties. According to the company, its licensed bondsmen are available round-the-clock, and its mission includes explaining the bonding process to families. 

Having someone who will be able to explain what lies ahead makes the process more understandable for families experiencing an emergency situation.

PDQ Bail Bonds offers bail bond services to the following areas: Denver, Aurora, Arapahoe, Adams, Jefferson, Broomfield, Douglas, and Boulder Counties.

It is simple, offering families information about the bond process.

Final Takeaway: Make Sure You Know the Process Before You Sign Anything

Being arrested can create a very hectic atmosphere for the whole family.

The best course of action is to try and slow things down and go through the process one step at a time.

Determine where the individual is being held. Determine if there is any bail. Get to know all the options that are open to you for release. If the appropriate option for your case is a bail bond, get a good agency, and be clear about your responsibilities.

If you’re looking for bail bonds Denver services, the best bail bond expert will not only help process your forms but will guide you through the entire process.

PDQ Bail Bonds offers bail bond services in Colorado that focus on offering timely and straight-to-the-point assistance in helping families go through an unfamiliar process.

Need help with the bail bond process? Talk to PDQ Bail Bonds for assistance and advice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bail Bonds

How does a bail bond function?

It may be possible for the defendant to post bail before trial when a monetary bond is needed, and all conditions for posting a surety bond are met. A bonding company or bondsman posts the bail bond, while the defendant or indemnitor has certain obligations under the agreement.

Does a bail bond mean the same thing as paying bail?

No.

There is a difference between paying the bail amount directly and getting a surety bail bond. In a surety bond, the commercial bail bondsman promises that the specified amount will be provided to the court according to the relevant agreement.

How expensive are bail bonds?

The exact cost varies depending on the situation and the requirements of Colorado state law. Consult the surety bonds company about all the costs involved, including the premium, payment terms, collateral, and additional fees.

When does the release happen?

There is no standard time frame for a release. Once the bail is posted, however, there are release procedures at the detention facility to be performed. The workload at the jail, availability of staff, time of day, and other factors influence the process.

Does it mean the case is closed if you get out?

Not necessarily. The bail allows for temporary release as the criminal proceedings go on. You will be expected to comply with any directions given by the court.

Is it necessary for all those who have been arrested to get a bail bond?

No. Some people can be released without going for commercial surety bonds.

Can you explain what I should ask before signing for a bail bond contract?

You should ask about the cost of the bail bond, how it will be paid, the duties of an indemnitor, missed court appearances, other costs incurred, and termination of your obligations under the bail bond.