Getting a call that someone you love has been arrested is one of the worst feelings. The good news is that getting them out is usually a straightforward process once you know the steps. This simple guide walks you through exactly what to do.
Step 1: Gather the Basic Information
Before you can do anything, you need a few key details about the person in custody:
- Their full legal name and date of birth
- Which jail or detention center they are being held in
- The charges, if you know them
- The bail amount, if it has been set
If you do not have all of this, do not worry : a bondsman can help locate the person and find the charge and bail amount.
You do not need to know everything before you call. The full name and date of birth are enough for a bondsman to start locating your loved one and confirming the bail.
Step 2: Understand the Bail Amount
Once bail is set, you have options. You can pay the full amount in cash to the court, or use a bail bondsman and pay a 15% premium. For most families, the bondsman route is the only affordable option : $1,500 on a $10,000 bond instead of the full $10,000.
Step 3: Contact a Licensed Bondsman
Call a licensed North Carolina bondsman. They will confirm the bail, explain the cost and any payment plan, and review the agreement with you. Once you sign and the premium is arranged, the bondsman posts the bond at the jail.
Step 4: Wait for Release
After the bond is posted, the jail processes the release. This can take from under an hour to several hours depending on how busy the facility is. A bondsman familiar with the jail can give you a realistic estimate.
Someone in Jail? Call Us 24/7.
We answer every call, any hour of the day or night. A licensed NC bondsman is standing by to help you get your loved one home.
336-422-6190Step 5: Make Sure They Attend Every Court Date
This is critical. The entire bond depends on the defendant appearing at every scheduled court date. Missing court triggers a warrant, forfeiture of the bond, and possible new charges. Keep track of the dates and make sure your loved one is there.
Barrino Bail Bonds has guided families through this exact process since 2012. Call 336-422-6190 any time, day or night : we will walk you through every step.
