Getting a call from your husband and learning that he is in jail can be shocking and upsetting. How you react can make a big difference in the overall case. Take the following steps after finding out that your husband is in jail:
Keep the Phone Call Short and to the Point
When you answer the phone and learn that your husband is calling from jail, it is normal to have a lot of questions and want to know what is going on. But most phone calls from jail are recorded, and the last thing you want is for your husband to accidentally incriminate himself while answering your questions. Rest assured that you will have plenty of time to ask questions later-- during the initial phone call just make sure to find out what jail he is at and what he has been charged with.
Contact a Criminal Defensive Lawyer
If your husband is being held in jail, the offense he was charged with is something that can likely be punishable with a large fine and even jail time. As soon as you learn about the arrest, it is in your best interest to contact a criminal defense lawyer. When you hire a lawyer right away, he or she will be able to speak to your husband abut the case and gather all of the details of the arrest while the information is still fresh in his mind. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the more time he or she will have to properly prepare the case before your husband's first court appearance.
Post Bond
After the arrest, your husband will have to appear before a judge so bond can be set. This is the monetary amount that must be paid before your husband can be released from jail. Bond amounts can vary widely, depending on the criminal charge and a person's past criminal record.
If you have the money available, you can pay the bond amount and your husband will be released. But many people can't afford to pay the entire bond, which is where a bail bond can come into play. When you use a bail bond company, you will be required to pay a small percentage of the total bond and this fee is typically non-refundable. The bail bond company will then pay the remainder of the bond on behalf of your husband. It is essential that your husband attend all scheduled court dates-- if he misses a court date you can be responsible for owing the bail bond company the entire bond amount.
For more information, contact a company like Yusef Odeh Bail Bonds.
