Three Steps To Help Get Your Loved One Out Of Jail Sooner

Jail isn't a place that anyone desires to go. For this reason, when you find a loved one in this position, getting them out of jail as soon as possible becomes the main priority. While you can't exactly take control of how fast the release process works, there are things you can do on the outside to somewhat expedite their release once the release process begins.

Discuss Finances With Your Loved One

Once you get an opportunity to speak with your loved one, find out what type of contribution they are able to make. Your loved one may have the financial means to cover their own bail or a large portion of it. However, since they are in jail, they can't simply walk into the bank and retrieve the funds.  

You want to find out this information beforehand so that you can collect any necessary paperwork to retrieve the funds they have, such as a power of attorney. The faster you can collect this information, the faster you can get the process initiated.

Start Investigating Collateral

When it comes to bail amounts, there is no way to know exactly how much bail the court will require your loved one to present for their release. Sometimes the amount of bail is significantly lower, but it can also be higher than expected. If you don't have the cash on hand to meet the bail terms, the courts will sometimes allow you to present collateral instead.

Collateral can come in the form of liquidable assets, property or anything else with value. Upon presentation of the collateral the courts will verify its value. When you already know what you will present as collateral this helps minimize the time this process takes because you can present the information right away.

Know What Questions To Ask

In some instances, you may be able to call on behalf of your loved one and collect information about their bail. If afforded this opportunity, know what questions to ask. First, find out if there is more than one bond. If an individual has multiple charges, they may be required to pay a bond on each separate charge.

It's also important to ask about any additional fees. Some municipalities allow release simply by paying the bail. Others charge additional jail and court fees for release, including fines and booking fees. These fees are generally due as a lump sum on the spot for release.  

Even if you plan to use the assistance of a bail bond (from a provider such as A A ABBA Bail Bonds), following all of these tips can get the ball rolling faster and get your loved one out of jail sooner.