A first court appearance can feel overwhelming, especially when it happens so quickly after an arrest. Understanding what a first appearance involves—how pleas work, what a judge will ask, and your right to legal representation—can help reduce anxiety and prevent costly mistakes. Knowing what to expect allows you to approach the process calmly and make informed decisions about the next steps in your case.
Category: Legal Facts
What Happens After an Arrest?
If you have been arrested before, then you probably know what to expect. However, if you have never been in that situation, then you might be wondering what happens when you do get arrested. Below are the steps that you will go through after your arrest.
The Difference Between Jail and Prison
It does not matter if you are in jail or prison, incarceration is meant to be an unpleasant experience. However, the policies, rights, and daily life of an inmate can be different between a prison and jail. At the basic level, the main difference between jail and prison is how long an inmate will stay.
Common Myths About Bail Bondsmen
Whether you, a loved one, or a friend has been arrested, it is important to hire a bondsman. A bondsman will put up a bond or will personally guarantee an individual will show up on their scheduled court date. A bondsman will file the required legal documents, finance the bail, and conduct other related legal matters so jail time is a short stay. However, like many other professions, bail bondsmen do get a bad rap. There are many myths and misconceptions that go along with the work of bail bondsmen, including the following.
Going to Jail During the Holiday Season: Expect Delays
There is an uptick in drunk driving and theft around Christmas every year. If you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, you could be facing longer than usual wait times as you’re being processed and booked into jail during the holiday season. Typical timelines may not apply during the holidays. It’s important to be informed and patient during this stressful time in order to make the most out of the unfortunate circumstance of your arrest.
COVID-19, Jail Time, Bail Bonds, and Your Safety
One of the worst things that can happen during this pandemic is getting thrown into jail. Close proximity to strangers. Poor health services. Little to no control over your own practices on staying safe from COVID-19. It’s a perfect formula for things to go wrong; and it has had an effect on countless people…
5 Reasons Why Bail Might Be Denied
When you or a loved one is sitting in jail trying to figure out what is going to happen next, a judge is reviewing your case and deciding on whether or not bail should be allowed. There are five reasons that a judge could possibly deny you or your loved one bail.
What To Do If You’re Arrested at a Protest
Protests have long been a way for citizens to speak up and voice their objections to something when they feel they are dealing with an unjust system. It’s your right to speak up and as long as you’re following the rules, law enforcement must allow it. But what if things go differently and you get arrested?
Does Attorney-Client Privilege Mean I Can Say Anything?
We’ve all heard the term “attorney-client privilege” and have a basic knowledge that the term means that you can say anything to your attorney, even confess to a crime, and he or she is not allowed to tell anyone. Is this true? Are there any restrictions on what you can say?
Posting Bond and Your Credit Score
When you get arrested, you may not consider the financial impact your arrest and trial may have on you or a loved one that has posted your bond but bond premiums, court fees, and fines are expensive. But can they affect my credit score?