Being arrested can be a frightening and confusing experience. Many people are unsure what will happen next or what the legal process looks like.
Understanding the basic steps that follow an arrest in California can help you better prepare and protect your rights.
Below is a general overview of what typically happens after someone is arrested.
An arrest usually happens when a police officer believes there is probable cause to believe a crime has been committed.
This may happen:
In some situations, an arrest can occur immediately at the scene, while in other cases a person may be arrested later after an investigation.
After the arrest, the individual is typically taken to a police station or detention facility.
Once someone is brought to the police station, the booking process begins.
During booking, officers typically:
The booking process officially places the arrest into the system and begins the criminal case.
After booking, the person may be:
Bail is a financial guarantee that the person will return to court.
The amount of bail often depends on:
The next step is typically the arraignment, which is the first formal court appearance.
During the arraignment:
In most cases, the arraignment happens within a few days after an arrest.
After arraignment, the case moves into the pre-trial stage.
This stage may include:
Many criminal cases are resolved during this stage through negotiations or legal challenges.
If the case is not resolved during the pre-trial process, it may proceed to trial.
At trial:
Not all criminal cases go to trial, but it remains an important part of the legal process.
The time immediately after an arrest can be extremely important for building a strong defense.
An experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to:
Seeking legal advice early can help you better understand your options.
If you or someone you know has been arrested in California, it is important to understand your legal rights and options.
Perliss Law Firm represents individuals facing criminal charges and investigations throughout California. Our team works to protect clients’ rights and guide them through every stage of the criminal process.
📞 Call Perliss Law Firm today for a consultation
(626) 323-9108
In many situations, a person will appear before a judge within 48 hours, although timelines may vary depending on the case.
Yes. In some cases, charges may be reduced or dismissed depending on the evidence and legal issues involved.
While individuals have the right to represent themselves, criminal law is complex. Many people choose to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney to better understand their rights and options.
"I personally was recommended to Sanford Perliss. My situation was dire. After our first meeting I Immediately felt relieved, I knew I was in good hands. He handled the case diligently and with the utmost professionalism. I don't know where I would be without the help of this man. Thank you Sandy, I will recommend you to anybody I know."
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"Perliss Law Firm’s attorneys are extremely experienced and skilled。 They treated me with respect and were always available to answer any questions I had. I am extremely grateful and would recommend their firm if you’re looking for a dedicated and trustworthy defense team."
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