We’ve all seen police shows where an arrest happens quickly, the suspect is booked, and everything seems straightforward. In real life, the booking process is far more detailed and can feel overwhelming—especially if you’ve never experienced it before.
If you are arrested, here’s what you can generally expect during the booking process.
What Happens During the Booking Process
Personal Information Is Recorded
Your basic information is documented, including your full legal name and the charge or charges for which you were arrested.
Mugshot Is Taken
Photographs are taken to identify you as the arrested individual. Mugshots also document your height and physical condition at the time of arrest, which may become relevant later in your case.
Personal Property Is Collected
Your clothing and personal belongings are taken and inventoried. If items are considered evidence, they may be held until your case is resolved. Personal property is typically returned once bail is posted, except for illegal items.
Fingerprinting and Identification
Most facilities use digital fingerprinting. Your fingerprints are entered into national databases and may be compared to records connected to other cases. Depending on the charge, DNA samples such as hair, saliva, or blood may also be collected and stored in a national database.
Search Procedures
In some cases, a full body search may be conducted. Courts have ruled that these searches are legal when someone is booked into jail, even for minor offenses, to prevent weapons, drugs, or evidence from entering the facility.
Warrant Check
Booking officers will search for any outstanding warrants. If additional warrants are found, this can affect bail eligibility and release options.
Health Screening
A medical evaluation is conducted to identify immediate health concerns and to protect the jail population. This may include screenings for infectious diseases and other medical conditions.
Incarceration
Once booking is complete, you are placed into a holding area or jail housing while awaiting the next step in the legal process.
What Happens After Booking?
The booking process can take several hours, especially if the jail is busy or understaffed. Remaining polite and cooperative can help avoid unnecessary delays. After booking, you may have a bail hearing, where the court decides whether you qualify for release on your own recognizance or if bail will be set.
If bail is issued, you can contact a bail bondsman to begin the release process.
At Mercy Bail Bonds, we understand how stressful and frightening this experience can be. Call us 24/7 at (727) 856-7775, and our professional bail agents will work quickly to help secure your release.