Warrant- The purpose of the arrest warrant is to authorize placing someone in police custody. Its is issued by a judge based on the probable cause that someone committed a specific crime. You will be arrested as soon as you’re located if there is warrant against you. You may also turn yourself in voluntarily. You can be arrested without a warrant if specific conditions are met.

Arrest- The individual is taken into custody by a peace officer based on the warrant issued or other circumstances that lead the officer to conclude that a crime was committed.

Bail or Own Recognizance (OR)- The court decides whether an individual can be released or held in custody based on the severity of the charge, the defendant’s prior record and the probability that the defendant will appear for scheduled court dates.

Rynerson Bail Bonds can help you at this step. When you call us about getting a bail bond we will explain to you the bail process, the costs involved and the payment method you prefer to use. We accept credit cards and offer a variety of low cost financing plans. Call us at 888-BAIL BOND to devise a plan that fits your individual needs.

Court Appearances- The defendant facing misdemeanor or felony charges must appear in court. The exact court instructions for date and time of appearance must be followed. Failure to appear may result in an arrest warrant against you. You must present identification and information about your case when you report to court.

Failure to Appear- The court may impose the following consequence for failure to appear.

• Forfeiture of your bail bond.
• A warrant for your arrest
• You may be fined according the legal requirement
• The District Attorney may issue additional charges for the failure to appear

Special Hearing or Disposition- In some cases the court has the authority to make a ruling and issue a sentence at this time.

Preliminary Hearing- This hearing is held in felony cases by a judge to determine if there is probable cause to believe that the accused has committed the specified crime. The decision is made whether the person charged will be held for trial.

Plea Bargaining- Through his/her attorney, the accused may agree on a plea with the District Attorney to avoid going to trial.

Trial Process- A jury is selected to judge the evidence presented when a case goes to trial. The prospective jurors are questioned by the prosecution and defense. Some jury candidates will be dismissed without explanation. After the selection of the jury the district attorney presents the evidence to show the defendant committed the crime as specified in the charges. The defense rebuts the accusations by presenting evidence to contradict the district attorney’s evidence and raise reasonable doubts for the jury’s consideration. The jury delivers the verdict after the presentation of evidence by both sides and instructions by the judge.

Post-Verdict Motions- Both the district attorney and the defendant’s attorney may make various legal motions or arguments before and after sentencing. These exchanges may include consideration of the possibility of a new trial or reduction of the sentence. The appeals can take years and reach the Supreme Court for final adjudication.

Bail Refunds- Cash bail will be refunded automatically when ordered by the court.  The processing time for the refund is about six to eight weeks. When you use a bail bondsman, the fee you pay is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the case.

Blood Alcohol Results- You can file a request before arraignment for the results of any blood alcohol tests.

Court Appointed Counsel- The court will appoint a public defender at your arraignment if you make a request because you cannot afford a private attorney.