When a loved one has been arrested, it can be challenging to know what to do next. With so many thoughts and feelings going through our minds, our decision-making processes will be compromised, but there are a few steps you can go through to stay on track. It will be vital for you to remain calm, stay informed, and seek assistance from family members and attorneys.
Sometimes thinking with an end goal in mind can ease our fears if they occur. If a loved one is sent to county jail for holding or is staying there permanently, know that you can keep in touch with them by phone, mail, and in-person visits. Your loved one will still have access to the outside world 7 days a week unless a shut-down occurs or an inmate is in solitary confinement.
Example: Burleigh County Jail in North Dakota
At Burleigh County Jail, inmates can receive mail as long as you call the detention center and ask for their booking number and address. Books are allowed to be left for an inmate but can’t be sent. You can visit Tuesdays and Thursdays, accept phone calls, and send money.
Taking the following steps can help your arrested friend or family member quickly.
An arrested family member hasn’t been sentenced for a crime, so try to remain calm. If you witness your loved one be arrested, don’t interfere with police protocol even if they’re a victim of a misunderstanding. Getting involved could cause you to be taken away, as well.
Once the officer has put your loved one in the cop car, ask if you can approach or ask questions about the arrest. For example, you’re allowed to ask questions about where they’re taking your loved one, the names of the officers, the charge or charges, and the time of the bond hearing.
Your immediate family usually involves the people in your household. Calmly tell them what has happened and try your best not to reprimand or argue with your family. Of course, your family members will be upset, but it’s in everyone’s best interest to stay strong.
Your loved one may call you from jail after they’re placed in a holding cell. Although emotions are running high, neither of you should discuss the crime over the phone. If your loved one starts bringing it up, cut them off. All calls are recorded and can be used as evidence.
Most jails won’t let your loved ones call a criminal defense lawyer but will provide one for them instead. Unfortunately, civil servants aren’t as qualified as lawyers, so try to hire a private one if possible. While they are more expensive, they can discuss bond terms with the judge. Plus, you can work with the attorney to get your loved one a lighter sentence or avoid jail time.
Bond hearings typically occur immediately after someone is arrested, but they may have to wait until the end of the day. Depending on the severity of the crime, your loved one may be released on a PR bond ($0). Call a bondsman so they can post a bond immediately after the hearing.
Don’t discuss the crime with the victim or witnesses, even if you know them personally. You may be accused of ‘witness tampering,’ which won’t bode well for your loved one.
Call your loved one’s employer and inform them that they won’t be going to work the next day due to a family emergency. Don’t state the true reason for their disappearance, as that may cause more problems. Do the same for all of their known appointments.
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I told my kids growing up,,that is one thing i would never do is bail them out of jail,,if they did something to get in there to be prepared to stay,,keep their mouth shut until there state appointed lawyer gets there,,,im sorry ,ive never been in the inside of a jail and I plan to keep it that way,,,ive seen parents lose their homes over kids that just dont care an do it over and over again,,,