The arraignment is an important part of the bail process. It’s when a judge will decide whether you’ll be granted bail, how much the bail will be, and what restrictions are connected to your bail. Here are some important tips that will help you prepare for your bail arraignment.
You Don’t Have to Wait for Long
You don’t have to wait forever for your arraignment hearing. Your legally entitled to an arraignment within 48 business hours of your arrest. The business hours part is key. If you’re arrested at the start of a weekend or during a holiday period, you will have to wait a little longer for your arraignment than if you’re arrested on a Monday or Tuesday.
Be Prepared to Answer Some Important Questions
TV dramas always portray the arraignment as a time when the lawyers do all the talking. While both sides will argue about the terms of your bail, you shouldn’t plan on remaining mute the entire time. During the arraignment the judge will ask you if you understand the charges that have been filed against you and whether you’re guilty or innocent of the charges.
You Are Allowed to Have a Lawyer
Lawyers aren’t just for interrogations and formal trials, you can also have one by your side when you go to your arraignment. Not only are you allowed to have one, having one is a good idea. They are going to be far more familiar with the arraignment process and are in a far better position to make sure you get the lowest bail and lightest bail restrictions possible. Perhaps the most important thing a lawyer does is prevent you from accidently saying anything incriminating during the arraignment.
You Should Present the Best Possible Version of Yourself
The judge is deciding how high your bail is set during the arraignment, so it’s a good idea that you present the best possible version of yourself. This doesn’t mean you need to be dressed to the nines. Instead, it means that you should remain calm, relaxed, and collected during the process. The more in control of yourself you are, the more agreeable the judge will be when it comes to setting bail restrictions.
Contact Bulldog Bail Bonds in Fresno
Once you’ve made it through the entire arraignment and know how much bail is required to secure your release, it’s time to connect with Bulldog Bail Bonds in Fresno. We are standing by, ready to write a bail bond and get you released as quickly as possible. We’re available 24/7, offer free online and phone consultations, are willing to create an affordable payment plan, and only charge you a fee that adds up to 10% of the bail bond.