What to Do When a Loved One Is Arrested: Step-by-Step Guide

Published 2026-02-22

Receiving a phone call that a family member or friend has been arrested is a shock. Your heart races, your mind scrambles, and you may feel completely helpless. But the actions you take in the hours following an arrest can make a significant difference in how quickly your loved one is released and how smoothly the process goes. This step-by-step guide will help you stay calm, organized, and effective during one of the most stressful times a family can face.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Gather Information

The first and most important thing you can do is take a deep breath and stay calm. Panic doesn't help — clear thinking does. If the arrested person is able to call you, gather as much information as possible: the jail or facility where they're being held, their booking number (if they know it), the charges they're facing, and any bail amount that's been set. If they don't have all this information yet, don't worry — a bail bond agent can help locate them and determine their status.

Write everything down. In stressful situations, it's easy to forget details that were shared over the phone. Having the information written down will make the next steps much faster and more efficient.

Step 2: Contact a Bail Bond Company

Once you have basic information about the arrest, call a licensed bail bond company as soon as possible. Time is critical — the sooner you initiate the bail process, the sooner your loved one can be released. Look for a company that offers 24/7 service, since arrests often happen at night or on weekends when many businesses are closed.

When you call, the bail agent will ask for the information you gathered in step one. They'll use this to locate your loved one in the system, determine the bail amount, and explain your options. A good agent — like those at Bright Bail Bonds — will walk you through the entire process clearly, answer all your questions, and never pressure you.

Step 3: Complete the Bail Bond Paperwork

The bail bond process requires completing several documents, including an application, an indemnity agreement, and sometimes a collateral agreement. Many bail bond companies can handle paperwork remotely — by phone, email, fax, or online — so you don't necessarily need to visit an office in person. The agent will explain each document and what it means before you sign.

You'll also need to arrange payment for the bail bond premium. In California, this is 10% of the total bail amount. Ask about payment plans and accepted payment methods — reputable companies offer flexible options to accommodate different financial situations.

Step 4: Wait for Release

After the paperwork is completed and the bail bond is posted with the jail, you'll need to wait for the facility to process the release. This is often the hardest part, because release times can vary widely. Smaller facilities may release someone within an hour or two, while larger county jails can take significantly longer. Your bail agent should keep you updated on the progress and give you a realistic estimate of when to expect your loved one.

Use this waiting time to prepare for your loved one's return. Make sure they'll have transportation from the jail, a change of clothes if possible, and a supportive environment to come home to. They may be exhausted, stressed, and emotional — patience and understanding go a long way.

Step 5: Understand What Comes Next

Release from jail is not the end of the legal process — it's the beginning. Your loved one will have court dates to attend, conditions of bail to comply with, and potentially a defense attorney to hire. Make sure they understand the importance of appearing at every court date. Missing a court appearance can result in bail revocation, a new warrant, and additional charges.

Consider helping your loved one find a qualified criminal defense attorney if they don't already have one. A good attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of a criminal case. Many defense attorneys offer free initial consultations.

What NOT to Do

Avoid discussing the details of the case over jail phone lines — these calls are typically recorded and can be used as evidence. Don't post about the arrest on social media. Don't try to contact the arresting officers or the alleged victim. And don't ignore the situation hoping it will resolve itself — proactive action leads to better outcomes.

Source: Bright Bail Bonds — fast, compassionate bail assistance 24/7. Call 888-546-9733 for immediate help.