Getting into legal trouble is never a pleasant experience. Being arrested, dealing with the police, and making bail arrangements can be stressful. And when it comes to bail, understanding the process can be difficult, especially for those who may not have ever been in trouble with the law.

This article discusses what happens during a bail hearing and what you should expect.

The Charges Against You Will Be Read Aloud

During your bail hearing, the prosecutor will read the charges against you. They will explain what you are being charged with and why you were arrested. 

The judge will also have a copy of the criminal complaint on hand, which will provide further details about the charges. You should pay attention and take notes, as you will need to answer questions regarding the specifics of the charges later in the hearing.

Your Lawyer Will Make Arguments For Your Release

Next, your lawyer will argue in favor of your release. They will present evidence that you are not a flight risk or a danger to the community. This may include character witness statements or other evidence supporting your argument that you should be released on bail. 

Be sure to discuss your lawyer's strategy beforehand so you are both on the same page during the hearing. You can also request that your family or friends attend the hearing to show their support.

The Judge's Decision

The judge will listen to the prosecutor's and your lawyer's arguments before deciding whether to grant bail. The judge will consider the type of offense, the strength of the evidence against you, and any prior criminal record.

If the judge decides to grant bail, they will set the amount and the conditions you should follow while released. For instance, the judge might require you to check in regularly with a probation officer or refrain from drinking alcohol.

Once your bail is set, you will need to pay it (or arrange for someone else to do so) before you can be released. If you cannot pay the full amount, you could work with a bail bond agency to post the rest of the amount. They could get you out of jail while you await your trial.

And since bail is a form of security, the court will expect you to show up for your trial. If you fail to do so, the court can issue a warrant for your arrest, and you may even have to serve time in jail. For more info on bail bonds, contact a company near you.