Finding Expert Witnesses for Your Upcoming Case

Nobody sets out with the intention of running afoul of the law, but situations can arise in the real world that can end with an arrest. Once you’ve entered into the criminal justice system, your top priority should be safely getting out of jail so you can adequately prepare for your legal defense. Unless you have a lot of assets to put up with the court, you’re going to need the services of a bail bondsman to secure your release. You can click here to see the services offered by In & Out Bail Bonds in Charlotte, but this is how the process works from beginning to end.

Immediately After an Arrest

Once someone is arrested and booked, it’s common for a suspect to be given a phone call. For many people that conversation is with a family member or friend, but some jurisdictions only allow for correspondence between an arrestee and an attorney or bail bondsman. If you find yourself in this situation, any communication should be used to start the process of being released from police custody. Whoever you decide to call, make sure they’re immediately contacting legal professionals on your behalf.

Bail Hearing

The next step in the process is when you’re brought in front of a judge who will decide how much money you’ll need to secure release from jail. Many jurisdictions allow for bail to be posted immediately after booking in the case of less serious crimes, but for the most part, you’re going to have to wait for the judge’s opinion on the matter. Once that number has been decided, your next step is to contact a company that provides bail bonds in Charlotte.

Consultation

When your friend or family member meets with a bail bondsman to sign the paperwork, a few things have to happen. First, they’re going to put up a portion of the total bond, which can be as much as 15 percent of the whole amount. For example, if the judge sets a number of $10,000, the bail bondsman’s fee could be as much as $1,500, and that amount is kept by the agent whether you appear in court or not. Your loved one will also act as co-signer for the whole arrangement, which means that they’re responsible for your whereabouts before trial, and pledge to pay the full sum if you don’t show up.

Release

Now that all of the paperwork has been squared away, you can finally breathe free air as it’s time for your release. It’s important that you use this time wisely, as it’s the best time for you to meet with an attorney to discuss your case and formulate a defense. While it’s your right to post bond for most crimes, don’t abuse it by not showing up for all of your court dates. Should you fail to appear, a bench warrant will be issued for your arrest, and your co-signer will be held financially responsible.

Knowledge Is Power

Now that you know the process for getting bail bonds in Charlotte, the best way to avoid an unpleasant situation is to not run afoul of the law in the first place. That being said, should you find yourself in this kind of predicament, use your new knowledge of the procedure to help make things right as quickly as possible.