Handling a Family Member’s Arrest

No one wants a phone call in the middle of the night saying that a loved one has been arrested. Unfortunately, thousands of people deal with just this scenario on a daily basis across the United States. While some people are used to handling this situation, others may be facing it for the same time and not know what to do or where to turn. Here is what to do if you get that dreaded phone call.

1. Medication

One of the first things to consider, and one that is often neglected, is medication. If your family member requires prescription medication for a chronic condition, they should have informed jail staff. If this occurs, you may be asked to bring medication to the jail or police station. If you are unable to do this, you should contact your loved one’s doctor for assistance.

2. Bail

The next thing you will want to think about is helping your loved one post bail. Bail is afforded to almost every person charged with a crime. It can be difficult for someone to secure their own release and they may ask you for help. You can save time and a runaround if you contact bail bonds companies on your own. If you are acting as a cosigner, the agent will want information about you that your loved one may not be able to provide.

3. Hiring an Attorney

Your loved one will need an attorney to help defend them against their charges. You can help your family member find an appropriate criminal defense lawyer. You can also attend meetings with your loved one if either of you are worried that information will be misinterpreted or forgotten. You may not be able to sit in on the appointments because of attorney client privilege, but you can certainly tag along for moral support.

4. Court

If you have helped secure the release of your loved one through a bail bonds agent, it is in your best interest to ensure that your family member appears in court as ordered. If they fail to appear or do not follow any instructions handed down by the court, you will be on the hook for the remainder of the bail money. Help with transportation if necessary and keep track of all court dates. You won’t want to, but if your loved one misses a court date, get in contact with the bonds agent as soon as possible.

Finding out that a loved one has been arrested can be stressful and a cause of anxiety. When you know how you can help and are prepared to do so, that stress is lessened slightly. If you get that dreaded phone call, follow the tips above to offer as much assistance as you can.

If your loved one has been arrested for a crime in Orlando, reach out to our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys. We are here for you and your family, and we offer a free initial case evaluation. Call today to schedule an appointment or browse our website for more information about the types of cases we handle.