If you’ve ever found yourself in the distressing situation where a friend or family member has been arrested, it can be overwhelming to know what steps to take next. Whether you’re concerned about their well-being or trying to help them navigate the legal system, understanding the process is key.
Here’s a breakdown of what happens when someone gets arrested and how a lawyer can be your best resource.
-
Call a Lawyer
One of the first things you should do if a loved one is arrested is to contact a lawyer. A lawyer can guide you through the process, help locate your friend or family member, and provide advice on how to proceed. Legal professionals can assist in finding them quickly, which is crucial in times of uncertainty.
-
Booking and Release on Misdemeanor Charges
In some cases, the arrest may involve a misdemeanor offense. These could range from issues like DUI to other minor offenses. After the arrest, the police will book your loved one, which involves documenting their information and charges. In many cases, after booking, they will be released either on their own recognizance or after posting bail.
This process can often be straightforward and relatively quick, allowing the individual to return home soon after the arrest. -
What Happens in More Serious Arizona Cases?
However, if the situation involves a more serious misdemeanor or a felony charge, the process becomes more complex. In these cases, your loved one will be transported either to a courthouse or to the jail where they will see a judge for their initial appearance, typically within 24 hours of their arrest. This appearance is critical because the judge will set the bail amount.
-
Why You Need a Lawyer at the Initial Appearance
This is where having a lawyer can be extremely beneficial. A lawyer can attend the initial appearance and argue for a reduced bond or even request that your loved one be released on their own recognizance, which means they can be released without having to pay bail, just by promising to appear in court.
-
How to Locate Your Loved One
If you’re trying to locate someone who has been arrested, the first step is to find out which law enforcement agency made the arrest. For example, if your loved one was arrested by the Scottsdale Police Department, they will likely be taken to the Scottsdale Police Department or the downtown jail. If it’s a felony case, they may be transported to the Maricopa County Jail.
To find them, you can use a variety of resources:-
- Booking Numbers: When someone is arrested, they are assigned a booking number, which is essential for tracking their case.
- Specific Court Websites: For arrests made by local police, the court’s website may provide case information.
- Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office: If the arrest involves a felony, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Inmate Search tool can help you track their location once they are booked into the system.
In some cases, their status will show as “awaiting IA” (Initial Appearance), meaning they haven’t seen the judge yet. This window is an opportunity to get legal help in order to potentially reduce or eliminate bail.
-
-
Let a Lawyer Help You Navigate the System
The process of dealing with an arrest can be stressful, but having the right support makes all the difference. A lawyer can not only assist with locating your loved one but can also help expedite the process, potentially reducing their bail or securing a release without bond.
At the end of the day, when a loved one is arrested, the best thing you can do is call an experienced attorney. They can provide essential guidance and support through a situation that can otherwise feel overwhelming.
Remember, no matter the charge, a lawyer’s expertise can make a significant difference in getting your loved one out and ensuring they have the right representation moving forward.
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. An experienced attorney can help you through this situation with your loved one. At R&R Law Group, we offer free case evaluations to help you understand your legal rights and options, schedule now or give us a call at (602) 497-3088.
If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to our office for assistance.
We’ll guide you through the legal process and work to resolve the issue with minimal stress and disruption to your life. Remember, it’s not the end of the world, but it does require action—don’t wait! Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.
