What Happens After an Arrest in Southern California
From the moment of arrest through release, court prep, and rebuilding — everything your family needs to know, in one place.
An arrest turns your world upside down in minutes. Most families have no idea what comes next — the booking process, bail, arraignment, attorneys, property recovery, and what happens to kids or dependents left behind. This page covers every step, with real resources for LA, San Bernardino, Orange, and Riverside Counties.
The Arrest-to-Release Timeline
Arrest & Booking
The defendant is taken into custody and transported to the nearest jail or holding facility. They are photographed, fingerprinted, and their personal property is inventoried. A bail amount may be set immediately based on the county bail schedule for common charges — or the defendant may be held until arraignment.
Bail Is Set
Bail can be set at booking (for misdemeanors and many felonies) or at arraignment by a judge. Once bail is set, a licensed bail bondsman like Chad can post the bond — typically requiring 10% of the bail amount as a premium. The defendant is released pending trial.
Release From Jail
After the bond is posted, the jail processes the release paperwork. Release times vary by facility — typically 4–10 hours in LA County, 4–8 hours in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Chad monitors the process and keeps the family updated.
Arraignment
The defendant appears in court — usually within 48 hours of booking if in custody, or on a scheduled date if released on bail. The judge reads the formal charges, the defendant enters a plea, and bail may be modified. This is the first critical court date.
Pre-Trial & Court Dates
After arraignment, the case moves through pre-trial hearings, possible motions, and eventually a plea deal or trial. The defendant must appear at every scheduled court date — missing a court date triggers a bench warrant and bail forfeiture.
Case Resolution
Cases resolve through a plea agreement, dismissal, or trial verdict. Once the case is resolved and all court obligations are met, the bail bond is exonerated and any collateral is returned.
Resources for Every Step
Get Out of Jail — Bail Bonds
Chad Conley posts bail bonds 24/7 across all four Southern California counties. Call the moment bail is set — we move immediately.
Find an Attorney
A criminal defense attorney is your most important resource after an arrest. Public defenders are available for those who qualify, but a private attorney can often negotiate better outcomes.
Inmate Locator — Find Your Loved One
Use these official inmate locator tools to find out which facility your loved one is held at and their current booking status.
Property Recovery After Arrest
Personal property taken at the time of arrest — wallet, phone, keys, vehicle — must be recovered through the arresting agency or impound lot. Vehicles are often towed to a private lot and accrue daily storage fees.
CPS & Child Custody Concerns
If children were present at the time of arrest or are left without a caregiver, CPS may become involved. Understanding your rights and acting quickly is critical.
Rehab & Recovery Resources
If substance use was a factor in the arrest, getting help before the court date can positively influence the outcome. Free and low-cost programs are available throughout Southern California.
Warrant Search
If you are unsure whether there is an active warrant, check before turning yourself in. Chad can help arrange a voluntary surrender, which often results in lower bail.
Court Preparation
Knowing what to expect at arraignment and subsequent hearings reduces anxiety and helps families support their loved one effectively.
Common Questions After an Arrest
Need Bail Help Right Now?
Chad answers 24/7 — day, night, weekends, and holidays. Call the moment bail is set.
Not legal advice. The information on this page is based on Chad Conley's 15+ years as a licensed bail bondsman, plus additional experience as an investigator and bounty hunter, and is intended to help families understand the general process. It is not legal advice, and Chad Conley is not an attorney. Every case is different. If you have legal questions about your specific situation, please consult a licensed attorney.