When Someone You Love Gets Arrested
The moment you hear that someone you love has been arrested, your world shifts. Fear, confusion, anger, helplessness — it all hits at once. But right now, they need you to be strong and take action. This guide will help you stay focused and do what needs to be done.
First: Take a Breath
Before you do anything, take 30 seconds to breathe. You cannot help your loved one if you're panicking. The system has processes, and millions of people navigate it every year. You can too.
What to Do Right Now
1. Confirm Where They Are
Find out which jail or detention facility they've been taken to. Use our jail directory to search by city or county. You can also call the local police department or sheriff's office non-emergency line.
2. Don't Discuss the Case on the Phone
This is critical. When your loved one calls from jail, the call is almost certainly being recorded. Do NOT discuss what happened, what they're charged with, or anything about the case. Prosecutors can and do use jail calls as evidence. Keep the conversation to logistics: bail amount, who to call, basic needs.
3. Find Out the Bail Amount
Check the jail's online inmate search or call the jail directly. Many facilities list bail amounts in their inmate records. If bail hasn't been set yet, a judge will set it at a hearing (usually within 24-48 hours).
4. Call a Bail Bondsman
A licensed bail bondsman can post bail and get your loved one released. You'll pay a 10% premium. Most bondsmen are available 24/7 and offer payment plans. Getting your loved one out of jail quickly is important for their mental health, their job, and their ability to prepare a defense.
5. Get a Criminal Defense Attorney
Once your loved one is out on bail, hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can:
- Explain the charges and potential penalties
- Represent them at hearings
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Request bail reductions if needed
- Build a defense strategy
What NOT to Do
- Don't post about it on social media — anything public can be used against them
- Don't confront witnesses or alleged victims — this can lead to additional charges
- Don't ignore it — the situation won't resolve itself
- Don't try to represent them yourself — the legal system is complex
Taking Care of Yourself
Having a loved one arrested is traumatic. It's okay to feel scared, angry, or overwhelmed. Lean on trusted friends or family for support. Focus on what you can control — getting them bailed out and finding legal representation.
Getting Through This
An arrest is not a conviction. Many cases are resolved with reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissals. The most important thing right now is getting your loved one out of jail and into the hands of a good attorney. Call a bail bondsman today — find one in our directory.