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Understanding the bail and release process
If your loved one has just been arrested, the most important question is how they can be released. Bail allows many defendants to leave jail while waiting for their court date.
Our team provides free inmate information for jails throughout Southern California and explains how the bail process works step by step.
Inmate Locator Request
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What Happens After an Arrest
When someone is arrested in Southern California, they must go through booking before bail can be reviewed. Bail is a financial agreement that allows the defendant to be released from jail while agreeing to return to court.
Here is what families should expect from arrest to release:
- Booking and Processing
- Bail Is Set
- Posting Bail and Starting the Release Process
Booking and Processing
After an arrest, the defendant is taken to a Southern California jail such as West Valley Detention Center, Central Detention Center, High Desert Detention Center, Glen Helen Rehabilitation Center, or Morongo Basin Jail.
During booking, the jail completes several steps:
- Fingerprinting
- Photographs
- Recording personal information
- Listing charges
- Securing personal property
- Running background checks
Booking must be completed before bail can be fully reviewed.
This process often takes several hours depending on the jail and how busy it is.
We can check booking status and confirm when bail information becomes available.
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Bail Is Set
Once booking is complete, bail is set in one of two ways:
- A preset bail amount based on California bail schedules
- A judge sets bail after reviewing the charges
Many common charges receive a preset bail amount shortly after booking. Some cases require a court appearance before bail is allowed.
We can help you check:
- Whether bail has been set
- The bail amount
- Whether the defendant is eligible for release
- What options are available to move forward
You receive this information first. There is no obligation.
Posting Bail and Starting the Release Process
After bail is set, there are two common ways to move forward:
- Pay the full bail amount to the court
- Use a licensed bail agent to post a bond
Once bail is posted, the jail begins the release process.
Release does not happen immediately, timing depends on:
- Jail staff workload
- Time of day
- Security checks
- Number of pending releases
Some releases take a few hours. Others may take longer during busy periods. We explain what to expect and keep you informed.
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How We Help During the Bail Process
Our Southern California custody information team helps families understand the bail process from start to finish.
Free inmate searches
Bail amount checks
Jail location details
Guidance on how bail works
Help understanding release options
Support throughout the release process
You receive the inmate information first.
Everything is explained in simple terms so you can make informed decisions during a stressful time.
How We Support Your Family
You call us or complete the inmate information form.
We gather the inmate name, date of birth, and your contact details.
We search Southern California jails and confirm custody status, charges, location, and bail information when available.
We explain how bail works for your situation and what options are available.
If you want to move forward with release, we review bail bond options and help you take the next steps.
This service is free and available any time, day or night.
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Common Questions About the Bail Process
How long does it take for bail to be set
In many cases, bail is set shortly after booking. Some charges require a court appearance before bail is allowed.
How do I find out which jail my loved one is in
Call us with the inmate name and date of birth. We check local jail systems and confirm the facility as soon as it becomes visible.
When can someone be released on bail
Release can begin once bail is posted and the jail completes processing.
What if bail is denied or delayed
Some cases require a judge’s review. We can explain what that means and what usually happens next.
Is the bail process the same at every jail
The process is similar across Southern California, but release times vary by facility and staffing levels.
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Need Help Understanding the Bail Process?
If your loved one was recently arrested, you do not have to figure this out alone. Our custody information specialists are ready to help you right now.
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