How To Get Out of Jail if You Are Arrested

Full Video Transcript

Getting out of jail after you’ve been arrested entails determining your bail amount. Within a reasonable time of your arrest, you will be taken before a judge, and the judge will set your bail amount. Bail is money or some piece of property that has a cash value that is given to the court in exchange for your release and promise to return to court for your hearing or trial. The amount of bail necessary to secure your release usually depends upon how serious the crime is, whether you have a prior criminal record, and how long you’ve lived in the area. If you cannot afford to pay the bail amount, you may be able to use a bail bonds service that will post your bail for a certain fee, such as 10% of the full amount. It is sometimes easier to get out of jail if you hire an attorney. The attorney can try and get your bail amount lowered in some cases. Sometimes, you can be released on your own recognizance, which means that you promise to return for your court hearing without paying any bail. If you are arrested, you should contact an attorney about getting out of jail as soon as possible.