Learning that someone you care about has been arrested is shocking and stressful. You may feel overwhelmed, scared, or unsure of what to do next. This guide walks you through the critical first steps when a loved one is arrested in Virginia.
Step 1: Stay calm and gather information
Start by collecting the essentials:
- Full name and date of birth of the arrested person
- Which jail they're being held in (Hampton City Jail, Newport News City Jail, Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail, etc.)
- The charges (if known)
- Booking number (if available)
If you don't have all of this, don't worry — we can help you find it. See our guide on how to find out if someone is in jail.
Step 2: Contact a bail bondsman immediately
Arrests don't wait for business hours, and neither should you. When you call us, we'll:
- Explain the bail process clearly
- Find out the bail amount if it's been set
- Discuss payment options and payment plans
- Start working on the release immediately
Step 3: Understand the bail process
Here's what happens after an arrest in Virginia:
- Booking: the arrested person is processed at the jail — fingerprints, photos, paperwork
- Bail set: a magistrate or judge sets the bail amount, usually within hours
- Bond posted: we post the bail bond to secure release
- Release: the bondsman posts the bond immediately — the jail's own processing determines the remaining wait
For the full picture, read How Bail Works in Virginia.
Step 4: Don't go to the jail
Unless specifically instructed to, don't drive to the jail. You won't be able to see the arrested person, and it won't speed up the process. Instead:
- Stay by your phone in case they call
- Work with us to arrange bail
- Gather any necessary documents or payment
- Prepare to pick them up when they're released
Step 5: Consider legal representation
While we handle the bail bond, your loved one will need a criminal defense attorney for the charges. The sooner they have representation, the better. We can provide referrals to experienced local attorneys.
What NOT to do
- Don't panic: staying calm helps you make better decisions
- Don't wait until morning: call a bondsman immediately
- Don't discuss the case on jail phones: those calls are recorded
- Don't ignore court dates: missing court means bail forfeiture and new charges
- Don't contact witnesses or victims: this can result in additional charges
After release: important responsibilities
Once your loved one is released on bail, they must:
- Appear at ALL court dates — no exceptions
- Follow all bail conditions set by the court
- Stay in contact with their attorney
- Avoid any further legal trouble
- Not leave the state without permission (see traveling while on bond)