What to Do When Someone Is Arrested in Washington State: Your Complete Step-by-Step Action Guide (2026)

Last Updated: January 2026

When you get that dreaded phone call—"I've been arrested" or "Your son/daughter/spouse is in jail"—your heart stops. Panic sets in. Your mind races with questions: What do I do? How do I help? How much will this cost? How long will they be in jail? Can I get them out today?

This is one of the most stressful moments you'll ever face. But here's the truth: what you do in the next few hours makes a massive difference in the outcome. The right actions can get your loved one home quickly, protect their legal rights, and save thousands of dollars. The wrong actions can make everything worse.

This comprehensive guide walks you through exactly what to do, step by step, hour by hour after someone is arrested in Washington State. We'll cover everything from the moment you learn about the arrest through getting them home, understanding the legal process, and protecting both of you from scams and costly mistakes.

Whether it's 2 AM on a Sunday or 2 PM on a Tuesday, whether they're in King County Jail or Spokane County Jail, whether it's their first offense or they have a record—this guide has you covered.

Table of Contents

1. First 60 Minutes: Immediate Actions
2. Hours 1-24: The Critical Period
3. Understanding the Booking Process
4. How to Get Them Out: Bail Options
5. Choosing a Bail Bondsman
6. What Happens Next: Court Process
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
8. Protecting Yourself from Scams
9. County-Specific Information
10. Frequently Asked Questions

The First 60 Minutes: Immediate Actions That Matter

You just learned someone you love was arrested. Your heart is pounding. Your hands are shaking. Here's exactly what to do in the next hour.

Step 1: Take Three Deep Breaths (Seriously)

Why this matters: Panic leads to bad decisions. Scammers target panicked family members. You need to think clearly for the next few hours.

What to do:

• Step away from distractions
• Take three slow, deep breaths
• Remind yourself: "They're safe. They're in custody. I have time to handle this correctly."
• This is not an emergency requiring instant action—despite what anyone might tell you

Reality check: In most cases, your loved one will spend at least one night in jail regardless of how quickly you act. Bail hearings typically happen 24-72 hours after arrest. Rushing benefits scammers, not your loved one.

Step 2: Gather Essential Information

Before you do anything else, get these details:

About the Arrest:

• ✅ Full legal name of person arrested
• ✅ Date of birth
• ✅ Where they were arrested (city/county)
• ✅ What jail they're being taken to
• ✅ Approximate time of arrest
• ✅ What they were arrested for (if known)

How to get this information:

• If they called you: Write down everything they say
• If someone else told you: Get their contact info
• If you're not sure: Call the jail directly (we'll cover how below)

Important: Write this information down. Your brain isn't working normally right now. You'll forget details.

Step 3: Verify the Arrest Is Real

Critical scam protection step—do this BEFORE sending any money or sharing information.

Why this matters: Scammers monitor arrest records and call families claiming their loved one needs bail immediately. They know actual names, charges, and booking numbers because this information is public.

How to verify:

Option 1: Call the Jail Directly

• Look up the jail's phone number yourself (don't use numbers provided by callers)
• King County Jail: 206-477-1957
• Pierce County Jail: 253-798-6660
• Snohomish County Jail: 425-388-3395
• Spokane County Jail: 509-477-2278
• Full list of Washington jails with numbers

What to say: "I'm calling to confirm [Name], date of birth [DOB] is currently in custody at your facility. Can you confirm their booking number and charges?"

Option 2: Check Online Jail Rosters Most Washington jails have online inmate search:

• King County: kingcounty.gov/depts/sheriff/detention-services
• Pierce County: piercecountywa.gov/corrections
• Snohomish County: snohomishcountywa.gov/corrections
• Search by name or booking number

RED FLAG: If someone is calling YOU demanding immediate payment, it might be a scam. Hang up and verify independently.

Step 4: Understand What's Happening Right Now

While you're gathering information, here's what's happening to your loved one:

Immediate (0-2 hours after arrest):

• Transported to jail in police vehicle
• Cannot make calls during transport
• Phone taken away and secured with belongings

Booking Process (1-4 hours):

• Personal information recorded
• Fingerprinted
• Photographed (mugshot)
• Warrant check
• Health screening
• Property inventoried and secured
• Placed in holding cell

During Booking, They Cannot:

• Call you
• Post bail themselves
• Leave
• Have visitors

Reality: They're safe. They're being fed. They're not in danger. You have time to make good decisions.

Step 5: Decide: Attorney First or Bail First?

This is your first major decision. Here's how to decide:

Call an Attorney FIRST if:

• Serious charges (felony, violent crime, DUI)
• They might say something incriminating
• Prior criminal record
• They're confused or scared and might talk to police
• Complex situation

Why: Attorneys can advise on whether to post bail immediately or wait. They can also intervene during questioning and protect rights.

Handle Bail FIRST if:

• Minor charges (misdemeanor, traffic, simple possession)
• Clear-cut case with no complexity
• You know the criminal defense process
• First-time offense
• They're calm and won't talk without attorney

Why: Getting them out quickly prevents job loss, allows them to help with defense, and reduces jail time.

Many people do BOTH simultaneously:

• One family member contacts attorney
• Another handles bail arrangements
• Coordinate so everyone knows the plan

Step 6: DON'T Do These Things (Yet)

Resist these common impulses:

❌ Don't call everyone you know - Privacy matters; criminal records are searchable ❌ Don't post on social media - Prosecutors read social media; can be used as evidence ❌ Don't talk to police without attorney - Even trying to help can hurt the case ❌ Don't send money to anyone who contacts you first - Likely a scam ❌ Don't make statements about their innocence publicly - Can complicate defense ❌ Don't hire the first bail bondsman who calls you - Cold calling is illegal; it's a scam

Why waiting helps: You need accurate information before acting. Hasty decisions made in panic often cost more money and cause more problems.

Hours 1-24: The Critical Period

You've confirmed the arrest. You're thinking clearly. Now here's your action plan for the next 24 hours.

Hour 1-3: Information Gathering Phase

Task 1: Get Complete Arrest Details

Call the jail and ask for:

• Booking number
• Exact charges
• Bail amount (if set yet)
• Court date (if scheduled yet)
• When you can visit or when they can call
• Any holds (warrants, immigration, other jurisdictions)

Important: Many jails won't have bail set immediately. Bail may be:

• Set according to bail schedule (preset amounts for common charges)
• Determined at arraignment (first court appearance, usually within 72 hours)
• Denied until judge reviews (serious charges)

Task 2: Understand the Charges

Research what they're facing:

• Misdemeanor vs. felony
• Mandatory minimum sentences
• Typical bail amounts for these charges in your county
• Whether it's bailable offense

Washington Charge Categories:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days to 1 year in jail; often bailable
• Gross Misdemeanor: Up to 364 days; usually bailable
• Class C Felony: Up to 5 years; bail varies
• Class B Felony: Up to 10 years; higher bail, sometimes denied
• Class A Felony: Up to life; bail often denied

Task 3: Start Attorney Search

Even if you post bail, you'll need an attorney. Start researching now:

What to look for:

• Washington State Bar Association license (verify at wsba.org)
• Experience with specific charges
• Local to the county (knows judges, prosecutors)
• Available for consultation quickly
• Clear fee structure

Free attorney resources:

• Public Defender (if indigent): Assigned at arraignment
• Washington Defender Association: 206-623-4321
• WSBA Lawyer Referral: 206-443-5297

Don't hire yet—just research options so you're ready when they're released or for first court appearance.

Hours 3-12: Planning and Preparation

Task 4: Assess Financial Reality

Be honest about what you can afford:

If They Need Bail, Calculate Costs:

Option A: Cash Bail (pay court directly)

• Full bail amount upfront
• Refunded when case ends (minus fees)
• Example: $10,000 bail = $10,000 paid now, ~$9,900 back later

Option B: Bail Bond (pay bondsman 10%)

• 10% premium paid to bondsman (non-refundable)
• Bondsman posts full amount
• Example: $10,000 bail = $1,000 to bondsman (never refunded)

Additional Costs to Expect:

• Attorney fees: $2,000-$10,000+ depending on charges
• Court fines if convicted: $500-$5,000+
• Court costs: $200-$500
• Restitution if applicable: Varies widely

Total Reality Check: Even a "simple" DUI can cost $5,000-$15,000 total by the time everything is done.

Task 5: Understand Bail Bond Process

If you'll use a bail bondsman (most people do):

How It Works:

1. Bondsman charges 10% premium (Washington law)
2. You pay premium + possibly collateral
3. Bondsman posts full bail with court
4. Defendant released from jail
5. When case ends, bondsman's obligation ends
6. You don't get premium back (it's the fee)
7. Collateral returned when case concludes

What You'll Need:

• Photo ID
• Proof of income/employment
• Collateral for larger bails (vehicle title, property deed)
• Co-signers for high-risk situations
• Defendant's information (name, DOB, booking number)

Task 6: Choose a Legitimate Bail Bondsman

CRITICAL: Protect yourself from scams

Red Flags (100% Scam if you see these):

• ❌ Contacts you first (unsolicited call or text)
• ❌ Demands payment via Bitcoin, gift cards, wire transfer
• ❌ Pressure to pay immediately "or they'll be transferred"
• ❌ No physical office location
• ❌ Prices below 10% (illegal in Washington)
• ❌ Won't let you verify their license

Green Flags (Legitimate Company):

• ✅ Physical office you can visit
• ✅ Licensed by Washington State Insurance Department
• ✅ Accepts credit cards, checks, or cash in person
• ✅ Provides written contract
• ✅ No pressure tactics
• ✅ Established history (check reviews)

All City Bail Bonds:

• 35+ years in Washington
• 14 locations statewide
• Licensed and bonded
• 24/7 availability: 1-800-622-9991
• No cold calling—you call us when ready

Hours 12-24: Taking Action

Task 7: Post Bail (If Bail Is Set and You're Ready)

Before posting bail, confirm:

• ✅ Bail amount is finalized
• ✅ No holds from other jurisdictions
• ✅ No immigration detainers (ICE holds)
• ✅ You understand all obligations
• ✅ Defendant understands conditions

How to Post Bail in Washington:

Option 1: Through Bail Bondsman

1. Call bondsman (All City: 1-800-622-9991)
2. Provide information over phone
3. Meet at office or have bondsman come to you
4. Sign contract and pay premium
5. Bondsman delivers bond to jail
6. Defendant released (2-8 hours processing time)

Option 2: Cash Directly to Court/Jail

1. Go to jail facility in person
2. Bring cash (most jails don't accept cards)
3. Show ID
4. Pay full bail amount
5. Receive receipt (CRITICAL—don't lose this!)
6. Defendant released (2-8 hours processing time)

Release Timeline:

• City jails: 1-2 hours after bail posted
• County jails: 4-8 hours after bail posted
• Weekends/holidays: Can take longer

Task 8: Prepare for Their Release

They'll need:

• Transportation home (can't take public transit in some cases due to bail conditions)
• Clean clothes (if possible)
• Support and calm environment
• Food (jail food is terrible)
• Plan for next steps

They'll be:

• Tired and stressed
• Possibly injured (from arrest)
• Emotionally fragile
• Worried about job, family, future
• In need of shower and rest

What NOT to do when they get home:

• Grill them about what happened
• Lecture or shame them
• Let them drink alcohol (often prohibited by bail conditions)
• Let them contact victims or witnesses (if no-contact order)
• Post on social media

What TO do:

• Let them rest
• Provide support without judgment
• Help them understand bail conditions
• Schedule attorney consultation
• Get court date on calendar with multiple reminders

Understanding What Happens During Booking

Knowing what your loved one is experiencing helps reduce anxiety.

The Arrest to Jail Journey

Step 1: The Arrest (Time: 5-30 minutes)

• Police place person under arrest
• Read Miranda rights (or should)
• Handcuffed
• Searched for weapons/contraband
• Placed in police vehicle
• No phone calls yet

Step 2: Transportation (Time: 10-60 minutes)

• Driven to police station or jail
• May stop for other arrests
• Cannot make phone calls during transport
• Belongings secured

Step 3: Booking Begins (Time: 2-6 hours total)

Personal Information Collection:

• Full name, aliases
• Date of birth
• Address
• Emergency contacts
• Medical information
• Gang affiliations (asked in some jurisdictions)

Documentation:

• Fingerprinted (digital scan, compared against databases)
• Photographed (mugshot—front and side views)
• Charges recorded
• Paperwork completed

Property Management:

• All belongings inventoried
• Clothing, wallet, phone, jewelry, cash
• Stored securely
• Detailed receipt provided
• Will be returned upon release

Database Checks:

• Outstanding warrants (local, state, national)
• Criminal history
• Immigration status
• Sex offender registry
• Gang databases

Health Screening:

• Basic medical questions
• Current medications
• Allergies
• Mental health assessment
• Suicide risk evaluation
• TB screening
• Infectious disease screening

Step 4: Classification (Time: 30 minutes - 2 hours)

• Determine housing assignment
• Risk level assessment
• Gang affiliation check
• Medical needs evaluation
• Mental health needs
• Protective custody if needed

Step 5: Housing Assignment

• Moved to cell or dormitory
• May be in holding cell temporarily
• Separated by gender
• Separated by risk level
• Isolated if COVID symptoms or other health concerns

When Can They Make Phone Calls?

Timeline varies by facility:

City Jails (Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane municipal):

• Usually after booking complete (3-5 hours)
• Limited phone time initially
• May need to wait for specific phone hours

County Jails:

• After classification (4-8 hours)
• Scheduled phone times
• May be middle of night by the time they can call

What to Expect from Jail Calls:

• Collect calls only (you pay)
• Very expensive ($2-$5 for 15 minutes typical)
• Recorded (everything monitored)
• Time limited (15 minutes usually)
• May get disconnected abruptly

CRITICAL: Don't discuss the case on jail phones! Everything is recorded and can be used as evidence.

Bail Determination

When Bail Is Set:

Option 1: Bail Schedule (Immediate)

• Preset amounts for common charges
• Available immediately after booking
• Can post and be released without seeing judge
• Common for misdemeanors and simple felonies

Option 2: Bail Hearing (24-72 hours)

• More serious charges
• Judge reviews case at arraignment
• Considers flight risk, danger, criminal history
• Sets custom bail amount or denies bail

Option 3: No Bail

• Most serious offenses
• Capital crimes (murder charges)
• Extreme flight risk
• Danger to community
• Prior FTA (failure to appear) history

How to Get Them Out: Understanding Your Bail Options

Once bail is set, you have several options. Here's how each works:

Option 1: Cash Bail (Post Full Amount Yourself)

How It Works:

• You pay the full bail amount directly to the jail or court
• Money held until case concludes
• Returned when case ends (minus fees)
• Must be cash in most Washington jails (some accept cashier's checks)

Pros:

• Get most money back eventually
• No bondsman fees
• No collateral requirements
• Full control

Cons:

• Need entire amount in cash now
• Money tied up for months or years
• Could lose it all if defendant doesn't appear
• Most people don't have $5,000-$50,000 in cash available

Example:

• Bail set at $10,000
• You pay $10,000 cash to jail
• Hold receipt carefully (critical document!)
• Case concludes in 8 months
• Court deducts: $75 admin fee
• You receive refund: $9,925
• Total cost to you: $75

Best for:

• People with cash available
• Lower bail amounts ($5,000 or less)
• Cases expected to resolve quickly
• When you want money back

Option 2: Bail Bond (Pay Bondsman 10%)

How It Works:

• You pay licensed bail bondsman 10% of bail (non-refundable)
• Bondsman posts full bail amount with court
• You may need to provide collateral
• Defendant released
• When case ends, bondsman's obligation ends
• You never get the 10% back

Pros:

• Only need 10% of bail in cash
• Bondsman handles paperwork with jail
• Professional guidance through process
• Payment plans often available
• Can post bail 24/7

Cons:

• 10% premium is gone forever (never refunded)
• May need collateral (car, house)
• Co-signers take on financial responsibility
• If defendant flees, you owe full amount

Example:

• Bail set at $10,000
• You pay All City Bail Bonds: $1,000 (10%)
• Possibly pledge car as collateral
• All City posts $10,000 bond with jail
• Defendant released
• Case concludes in 8 months
• All City's obligation ends
• Collateral returned to you
• You never get $1,000 back
• Total cost to you: $1,000

Best for:

• Most people (90% use this option)
• When you don't have full bail in cash
• Bail amounts over $5,000
• When you need payment plan
• 24/7 emergency situations

Washington Law: Bail bond premium is regulated at 10% by state law. Any company charging more or less is operating illegally.

Option 3: Property Bond (Use Real Estate)

How It Works:

• Pledge property (home, land) as collateral directly with court
• Property must be worth 150-200% of bail amount
• Court places lien on property
• If defendant appears, lien released
• If defendant flees, court can seize property

Pros:

• Don't need cash
• No bondsman premium
• Keep your property if defendant appears

Cons:

• Very slow process (weeks)
• Complex paperwork
• Attorney usually needed
• Risk losing your home
• Property must be in Washington
• Must have significant equity

Example:

• Bail set at $50,000
• Your home worth $200,000 with $150,000 equity
• File property bond paperwork
• Court appraises property
• Lien placed on home
• Process takes 2-4 weeks
• Defendant finally released
• Case concludes in 1 year
• Lien released
• Total cost: $0 (plus attorney fees for paperwork)

Best for:

• Very high bail amounts
• When defendant is reliable (family)
• When you have time (not urgent)
• Property owners with significant equity

Reality: Property bonds are rare because they're slow and complex. Most people use bail bondsmen instead.

Option 4: Release on Own Recognizance (OR Release)

How It Works:

• Judge releases defendant based on their promise to appear
• No money required
• Conditions may be attached
• Defendant signs agreement

Pros:

• FREE—no money required
• Immediate release after judge orders it
• No financial risk

Cons:

• Must wait for judge (24-72 hours typically)
• Only granted for minor offenses
• Requires strong community ties
• Not available for serious charges

Who Qualifies:

• First-time offenders
• Minor misdemeanors
• Strong community ties (job, family, residence)
• No flight risk factors
• No danger to community

Example:

• Arrested for minor marijuana possession (first offense)
• Arraignment next morning
• Judge reviews case
• You have job, family, lived here 10 years
• Judge grants OR release
• Sign promise to appear
• Released immediately
• Show up to all court dates
• Total cost: $0

Best for:

• Minor first offenses
• People with strong local ties
• Non-violent charges
• When you can wait 24-72 hours for judge

Choosing a Bail Bondsman: What You Need to Know

If you're using a bail bondsman (most common option), here's how to choose wisely:

What Makes a Legitimate Bail Bondsman

Required in Washington State:

✅ Licensed by Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner

• Every bail agent must have active license
• Verify at: insurance.wa.gov
• Should display license number on website
• Will provide license number when asked

✅ Physical Office Location

• Real address you can visit
• Near major jails
• Not just P.O. Box
• Visible on Google Street View

✅ Established Business History

• Years in business
• Verifiable reviews
• Professional website
• Listed in business directories

✅ Proper Payment Methods

• Credit/debit cards
• Checks
• Cash in person
• Secure online payment systems

✅ Professional Communication

• Patient, not pushy
• Answers questions clearly
• Provides written contracts
• Explains all fees upfront

Red Flags: Avoid These "Bondsmen"

100% SCAM if you see:

❌ They Contact You First

• Cold calling is illegal in Washington
• Unsolicited texts or calls
• Messages on social media
• If you didn't reach out to them first, it's a scam or ethical violation

❌ Suspicious Payment Requests

• Bitcoin or cryptocurrency
• Gift cards (iTunes, Google Play, Amazon, etc.)
• Wire transfer (Western Union, MoneyGram)
• Payment apps to individuals (Venmo, CashApp, Zelle)
• "Must pay within the hour"

❌ No Physical Presence

• No office address
• "We come to you" with no office
• P.O. Box only
• Address is someone's house

❌ Too Good to Be True Pricing

• Premium less than 10% (illegal in WA)
• "Special discounts"
• "Today only" deals
• Prices that seem impossible

❌ Pressure Tactics

• "Must decide now"
• "They'll be transferred if you don't pay immediately"
• Won't let you verify independently
• Gets angry when you ask questions
• Refuses to provide license number

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Ask every bondsman these questions:

1. "What's your Washington State Insurance license number?"

• Should provide immediately without hesitation
• Write it down and verify online

2. "What's your physical office address?"

• Should give specific street address
• Look it up on Google Maps
• Consider visiting in person

3. "What's your total fee and what does it include?"

• Should be exactly 10% of bail amount in Washington
• Ask about payment plans if needed
• Get it in writing

4. "What collateral will you need?"

• Depends on bail amount and defendant's history
• Understand what you're pledging
• Know the risks

5. "What happens if they miss court?"

• Understand your obligations
• Know the financial consequences
• Clarify the grace period

6. "How long until they're released?"

• Get realistic timeframe
• Understand the process
• Know what can delay release

7. "What are the defendant's obligations?"

• Bail conditions explained
• Check-in requirements
• Travel restrictions
• Consequences of violations

All City Bail Bonds: Why Choose Us

35+ Years Serving Washington Families

✅ Fully Licensed and Bonded

• Washington State licensed since 1989
• Member: Professional Bail Agents of the United States
• Member: Washington State Bail Agents Association
• A+ Better Business Bureau rating

✅ 14 Locations Statewide

• Seattle (near King County Jail)
• Kent (near SCORE Jail)
• Everett (near Snohomish County Jail)
• Tacoma (near Pierce County Jail)
• Spokane (near Spokane County Jail)
• Plus: Bellingham, Kennewick, Mt. Vernon, Coupeville, Port Orchard, Vancouver, Walla Walla, Yakima, Lynnwood

✅ 24/7 Availability

• Answer phones day and night
• Holidays, weekends, 3 AM—we're here
• Fast response times
• Available when you need us most

✅ Transparent, Honest Service

• 10% premium as required by law
• No hidden fees
• Written contracts
• Clear explanation of all costs
• Payment plans available

✅ 100% Free Consultations

• No obligation to use our services
• Honest answers to all questions
• Help understanding the process
• Guidance even if you don't hire us

✅ Experienced Professionals

• Thousands of successful bonds posted
• Know every jail in Washington
• Understand local court systems
• Relationships with court staff

Call All City Bail Bonds: 1-800-622-9991

We'll never pressure you, never cold-call you, never request suspicious payments. We're here when you're ready for legitimate help.

What Happens Next: The Court Process Explained

Getting out of jail is just the beginning. Here's what to expect in the legal process:

The First Court Appearance: Arraignment

When: Usually within 72 hours of arrest (weekends/holidays can delay)

What Happens:

• Defendant appears before judge
• Charges formally read
• Defendant enters plea:
  • Guilty: Accepts responsibility
  • Not guilty: Contests charges
  • No contest: Doesn't admit guilt but accepts punishment
• Attorney appointed if defendant can't afford one (public defender)
• Bail may be set or reviewed
• Future court dates scheduled

Important: Defendant must appear even if out on bail. Missing arraignment = bail forfeiture and arrest warrant.

Possible Outcomes and Timelines

Scenario 1: Charges Dismissed (Best Case)

• Prosecutor reviews and decides not to pursue
• Lack of evidence
• Witness problems
• Constitutional violations
• Timeline: Days to weeks
• Bail exonerated immediately
• Case over

Scenario 2: Plea Agreement (Most Common—90% of Cases)

• Defendant and prosecutor negotiate
• Plead guilty to reduced charges
• Agreed-upon sentence
• Avoids trial
• Timeline: 1-6 months typically
• Bail exonerated at sentencing

Scenario 3: Trial (Rare—10% of Cases)

• Defendant pleads not guilty
• Pre-trial motions and hearings
• Discovery process
• Jury selection
• Trial
• Verdict
• Timeline: 6-18 months for felonies, 2-6 months for misdemeanors
• Bail remains in effect throughout
• Exonerated after verdict/sentencing

Bail Conditions: Rules They Must Follow

Standard Conditions (Apply to Almost Everyone):

• ✅ Appear at all court dates
• ✅ Not commit any new crimes
• ✅ Remain in jurisdiction (county or state)
• ✅ Keep bail bondsman/court informed of address changes
• ✅ Surrender passport (sometimes)

Common Additional Conditions:

For DUI:

• No alcohol consumption
• Ignition interlock device
• Surrender driver's license
• Attend victim impact panel
• Random alcohol testing

For Domestic Violence:

• No-contact order with alleged victim
• Stay away from victim's home/work/school
• Surrender firearms
• GPS monitoring (ankle bracelet)
• Anger management classes

For Drug Charges:

• Random drug testing
• Treatment program enrollment
• No possession of drugs/paraphernalia
• Avoid known drug areas

For Violent Crimes:

• GPS ankle monitor
• House arrest or curfew
• No contact with co-defendants
• No possession of weapons
• Regular check-ins with pretrial services

Violation Consequences:

• Immediate arrest
• Bail revoked
• Remain in jail until trial
• New criminal charges
• Bail money forfeited

How Long Will the Case Take?

Misdemeanors:

• Simple cases: 2-4 months
• Complex cases: 4-8 months
• With trial: 6-12 months

Felonies:

• Simple cases: 6-12 months
• Complex cases: 12-24 months
• With trial: 18-36 months

Factors That Extend Timeline:

• Attorney changes
• Continuances (delays)
• Pre-trial motions
• Discovery disputes
• Witness availability
• Court backlog
• COVID delays (still affecting some courts)

Common Mistakes That Make Everything Worse

Learn from others' mistakes. Avoid these costly errors:

Mistake #1: Talking to Police Without an Attorney

Why people do it: "I have nothing to hide. I'll just explain what happened."

Why it's a mistake:

• Anything you say can and will be used against you
• You can't un-say something
• Police are trained interrogators
• "Just clearing things up" often leads to incriminating statements
• Even innocent people accidentally say things that hurt their case

What to do instead:

• Politely invoke your right to remain silent: "I'm invoking my Fifth Amendment right to remain silent."
• Request an attorney: "I want to speak with an attorney."
• Then stop talking completely
• Do not try to explain or defend yourself
• Do not answer "just a few questions"

Mistake #2: Missing Court Dates

Why people do it:

• Forgot the date
• Thought it was next week
• Car broke down
• Overslept
• Didn't think it was important

Why it's a disaster:

• Immediate arrest warrant issued
• Bail forfeited (lose all money)
• New criminal charges (FTA - Failure to Appear)
• Bail denied going forward
• Harsher sentence if convicted
• Bounty hunters may come looking

What to do instead:

• Set multiple phone alarms
• Write on multiple calendars
• Have family remind you
• Arrive 45-60 minutes early
• If you absolutely can't make it, call attorney immediately (days in advance if possible)

Mistake #3: Violating Bail Conditions

Even "minor" violations have major consequences:

• One drink when alcohol prohibited
• One text to victim when no-contact ordered
• One trip across county line when travel restricted
• Missing one drug test
• Being 5 minutes late to check-in

Result: Bail revoked, back to jail, lose bail money, new charges

Mistake #4: Posting About the Case on Social Media

Why people do it: "I'm innocent and people need to know!"

Why it's a mistake:

• Prosecutors read social media
• Posts can be used as evidence
• Can't delete things once posted
• Screenshots live forever
• Witnesses see posts and change testimony
• Shows state of mind

What to do instead:

• Don't post anything about the case
• Set social media to private
• Tell friends not to post about it
• Assume everything is public

Mistake #5: Contacting Victims or Witnesses

Why people do it: "I just want to apologize" or "I want to explain my side"

Why it's a disaster:

• Violates no-contact orders (new charges)
• Can be seen as intimidation (felony)
• Everything you say can be used against you
• Makes you look guilty
• Turns misdemeanor into felony

What to do instead:

• Zero contact—not even through friends
• No social media contact
• No driving past their house
• No "accidental" encounters
• Communicate only through attorneys

Protecting Yourself from Bail Bond Scams

Scammers target panicked families. Here's how to protect yourself:

Top Bail Bond Scams in 2025

Scam #1: Fake Bail Bondsman Calls

• Claims to be from legitimate company
• Demands Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfer
• Creates extreme urgency
• Protection: Hang up, call company directly at verified number

Scam #2: Fake Jail Official

• Claims to be deputy or jail staff
• Says you can pay bail directly to them
• Requests unusual payment methods
• Protection: Jail staff NEVER handle bail payments

Scam #3: Bitcoin ATM Scam

• Directs you to Bitcoin ATM
• Provides wallet address
• Money gone forever once sent
• Protection: NO legitimate bail company accepts cryptocurrency

Red Flags (100% Scam):

• Payment via gift cards, Bitcoin, wire transfer
• Contacted you first (cold calling illegal)
• Extreme pressure and urgency
• Won't let you verify independently
• No physical office location

How to Verify Legitimacy:

1. Hang up and call company at number from their website
2. Visit physical office in person
3. Check license with Washington State
4. Use only standard payment methods
5. Take time to verify—legitimate companies understand

All City Bail Bonds: We will NEVER contact you first, request Bitcoin/gift cards, or pressure you. If someone claiming to be us does this, hang up and call 1-800-622-9991 to verify.

Washington County-Specific Information

King County (Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, Renton)

Jails:

• King County Jail (Seattle): 206-477-1957
• SCORE Jail (Des Moines): 206-205-9100

Bail Timeline: 10-20 weeks for refunds (slowest in state)

All City Office: Seattle & Kent locations

Pierce County (Tacoma, Lakewood, Puyallup)

Jail:

• Pierce County Jail: 253-798-6660

Bail Timeline: 6-12 weeks for refunds

All City Office: Tacoma location

Snohomish County (Everett, Marysville, Lynnwood)

Jail:

• Snohomish County Jail: 425-388-3395

Bail Timeline: 8-12 weeks for refunds

All City Office: Everett & Lynnwood locations

Spokane County

Jail:

• Spokane County Jail: 509-477-2278

Bail Timeline: 6-10 weeks for refunds

All City Office: Spokane location

Other Counties We Serve:

• Whatcom (Bellingham)
• Kitsap (Port Orchard)
• Island (Coupeville)
• Clark (Vancouver)
• Benton/Franklin (Kennewick)
• Skagit (Mt. Vernon)
• Walla Walla
• Yakima

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long will they be in jail? A: Minimum 24-72 hours until arraignment if bail is posted. Without bail, could be weeks to months depending on case.

Q: How much does bail cost? A: Varies by charge. DUI: $5,000-$10,000. Assault: $10,000-$50,000. Serious felonies: $50,000-$500,000+.

Q: Do we get bail money back? A: Cash bail: Yes (minus fees). Bail bond: No, the 10% premium is never refunded.

Q: Can they be bailed out on weekends? A: Yes! Bail bonds companies operate 24/7. All City: 1-800-622-9991 anytime.

Q: What if they can't afford an attorney? A: Public defender appointed at arraignment for those who qualify financially.

Q: Will this go on their record? A: Arrests are public record. Convictions stay on record unless expunged. Dismissals can be sealed.

Q: Can they lose their job over this? A: Possibly, depending on employer policies and nature of charges. Getting out on bail quickly helps prevent job loss.

Q: What if they're not a U.S. citizen? A: May face immigration consequences including deportation. ICE may place hold preventing release even if bail is posted. Need immigration attorney.

Final Checklist: What to Do Right Now

☐ Verify the arrest is real (call jail directly)

☐ Gather essential information (name, DOB, charges, booking number)

☐ Decide: attorney first or bail first (or both simultaneously)

☐ Research attorneys (start list even if not hiring yet)

☐ Assess financial reality (what can you afford?)

☐ Choose legitimate bail bondsman (verify license, check reviews)

☐ Understand bail conditions (know what they must follow)

☐ Prepare for release (transportation, support, court dates on calendar)

☐ Protect yourself from scams (hang up on suspicious calls)

☐ Set multiple reminders for court dates (this is critical!)

Get Expert Help 24/7 in Washington State

You don't have to navigate this alone.

All City Bail Bonds has been helping Washington families for 35+ years.

✅ 24/7 availability across all Washington counties ✅ 14 convenient locations statewide ✅ 100% free consultations ✅ Licensed and bonded professionals ✅ Fast, compassionate service ✅ Flexible payment plans ✅ No cold calling, no scams, no pressure

Call All City Bail Bonds Now: 1-800-622-9991

We're here to help—day or night, weekend or holiday. When someone you love is in jail, every hour matters. Let our experienced team guide you through the process with honesty, transparency, and respect.

Seattle • Kent • Everett • Bellingham • Kennewick • Mt. Vernon • Spokane • Tacoma • Coupeville • Port Orchard • Vancouver • Walla Walla • Yakima • Lynnwood

Your loved one is counting on you to make good decisions in a crisis. You've read this guide. You know what to do. Now take action—the right way.

Remember: Take a breath. Verify everything. Protect yourself from scams. Choose legitimate professionals. Follow through on all obligations.

You've got this. And we're here to help every step of the way.

Call All City Bail Bonds: 1-800-622-9991