When someone you know is arrested, you're angry, upset, and shocked. These emotions are valid, but to help your friend or family member, you must remain calm. Contact the station where the person is being held and ask these questions.
Has Bail Been Posted?
When the alleged crime is not too serious, suspects are usually held on bail. This means that if they pay a certain amount of money, they can leave jail until their trials. The amount varies but increases with the severity of the suspected offense. Once you find out your loved one's bail, reach out to a bail bond agent PA. That way, even if you can't afford the cost of bail right now, your loved one doesn't need to stay in jail.
Has the Person Been Charged?
After the police arrest someone, they have 48 hours to charge the suspect or they must release him or her. Sometimes it takes a while for law enforcement to decide on what charge to use, but sometimes they realize that they don't have enough evidence to charge the person in custody. Particularly if your loved one isn't knowledgeable about his or her rights, check with the police station regularly until they declare the charges or release the suspect.
Has a Lawyer Been Chosen?
Under the United States' Constitution, everyone who has a criminal trial has the right to a lawyer. If the defendant cannot afford a lawyer, the court provides one. While you can use this option if you are low on funding, it's better to avoid it. Court-appointed lawyers are frequently inexperienced and they don't usually care very much about their cases. Reach out to your friends and family to see if anyone knows a lawyer who can help your loved one.
Has Evidence Surfaced?
The police station probably won't answer your questions about evidence, but it's a good idea to think about what proof people can use against your loved one. If you know that the person was arrested wrongfully because you have proof that he or she is innocent, reach out to your lawyer immediately. If you're not sure whether your loved one is innocent, cooperate with all attempts to gather evidence.
By asking these questions about your loved one's arrest, you understand the situation around his or her incarceration. Stay vigilant for ways to help your loved one until the trial happens or the charges are dropped.
COMMENTS