What Happens Next? Understanding the Consequences of Getting Arrested

Do you think that you may be arrested? Or are you wondering what the process will be if, at some point in the future, you actually do get arrested?
From legal fees to jail time, there are numerous repercussions that come with being charged with a crime.
We’ll discuss what happens next after being arrested and how it can affect your life in unexpected ways.
The Consequences of Getting Arrested
The consequences of getting arrested can be serious. You could go to jail or prison (if convicted). You can also be fined, and/ or have your driver’s license suspended. You may also lose your right to vote or own a gun.
As soon as you get arrested, your first thought might be “Will I have to stay here or can I get out?” Not everyone is able to call up a business like Alanas Bail Bonds to arrange their bail. It is possible to spend some time in jail depending on your charges.
The Arraignment Process
The arraignment process is the first step in a criminal case. It happens very soon after someone is arrested.
During arraignment, the charges against the defendant are read aloud in court. As soon as this is done, the defendant will either plead guilty (sentencing happens immediately) or not guilty (a trial date is set).
Most defendants choose to have an attorney present during their arraignment.
Rights After an Arrest
You have the right to remain silent after being arrested. Anything you say can be used against you in court. You also have the right to a lawyer. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you.
You have the right to be brought before a judge within 24 hours of your arrest. At this hearing, the judge will decide whether there is enough evidence to keep you in jail or let you go until your trial.
If you are released from jail, you may have to post bail. This is money that ensures you will show up for your court date. If you do not show up, you will lose the bail money and a warrant will be issued for your arrest.
If convicted of a crime – you may face jail time, probation, or community service. More serious crimes may result in harsher punishments.
Bail and Bonding Out of Jail
If the accused wants to be released from custody, they have to pay the money the court has ordered, otherwise, they will be held inside the jail.
The purpose of bail is to ensure that the accused appears for their court date. If the accused fails to appear, they will forfeit their bail. This will then result in a warrant going out for their arrest.
Bail is not always required, however, and sometimes the court may release the accused on their own recognizance (O.R.), which means they promise to appear for their court date without having to post any bail.
If bail is set, the accused or their loved ones can contact a bail bondsman who will post bail on their behalf in exchange for a fee (typically 10%). Once bail is posted, the accused will be released from custody and given a court date to appear.
Sentencing and Punishment
If you are sentenced to jail or prison, you will be confined to a cell and have limited freedom. You will have to follow rules and regulations, and your movements will be restricted.
If you are sentenced to probation, you will be released from custody but will still have some restrictions on your freedom. You will have to report regularly to a probation officer.
You might be sentenced to community service. If this was to happen, you will be required to work for non-profit organizations or a government agency.
Alternatives to Incarceration
Probation: Someone can be released from jail with rules and regulations that they have to follow to stop them from going back inside.
Parole: A person is released from jail before their sentence is up. It is on the condition that they obey certain rules and regulations.
House arrest: They are confined to their home and must obey certain rules and regulations.
Electronic monitoring: A person just out of jail will wear an electronic device that tracks their whereabouts.
Conclusion
Getting arrested is a serious matter. It can have long-lasting consequences.
It’s important to understand the process of what happens after an arrest, including being booked into jail, court proceedings, potential fines or penalties, probation requirements, and more.
Understanding the consequences of being arrested are highly important. It is crucial that you avoid these types of situations again in the future. Otherwise, the next time you get arrested, you may face harsher punishment.