Being arrested in Orange County California can be overwhelming and scary especially if it’s your first time dealing with the justice system. Whether you’re stopped by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, arrested in Santa Ana, Irvine, Anaheim, Laguna Beach or another local city, it’s crucial to understand your rights and how to protect yourself in those first critical hours.
As our name indicates, Orange County Bail Bonds has helped hundreds of people arrested in Orange County CA get out of jail fast, affordability and with dignity. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to do and what not to do if you or a loved one is arrested in Orange County, California.
What You Should Do After an Arrest
- Stay Calm and Respectful
Whether you’re being arrested by city police or sheriff’s deputies, stay calm and do not resist. Even if the arrest feels unfair, it’s never worth escalating the situation. In California, resisting arrest is a criminal offense under Penal Code 148(a)(1) PC and could result in additional charges.
- Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
Under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article 1, Section 15 of the California Constitution, you have the right to remain silent. Aside from providing your name and ID, you don’t have to answer any questions without an attorney present. Politely say:
“I’m invoking my right to remain silent and would like to speak with an attorney.”
This protects you from self-incrimination as the old saying goes: anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.
- Request a Lawyer Immediately
You have the right to legal representation. Once you’re booked at a facility like the Orange County Central Jail in Santa Ana, you’ll be given a chance to contact an attorney or public defender. Ask for a lawyer as soon as possible. Don’t answer questions from officers or detectives until your attorney is with you.
- Understand Your Charges
During or after booking, you’ll be informed of your charges. This could range from a misdemeanor DUI to a felony theft or assault. Charges will impact your bail amount and your legal strategy, so listen carefully and communicate these details to your attorney or bail bond agent.
- Call a Local Bail Bonds Company
If bail is set, posting it quickly means you can return home and prepare your case with your attorney. In Orange County, bail amounts are based on the county’s bail schedule, but a judge can modify them depending on circumstances. Consult with your attorney regarding any legal questions.
If the full bail amount is too high, a licensed bail bond company like Orange County Bail Bonds can post bail on your behalf which is typically for a fee of 10% of the total bail. We’re based in California and work closely with the Orange County jails to secure fast release.
What You Shouldn’t Do After an Arrest
- Don’t Resist or Argue
Resisting arrest in California even passively can result in separate charge on top of what you are being charged for with the arrest. Don’t pull away, argue, or talk back. Comply calmly and save your defense for the courtroom.
- Don’t Talk About the Case (Except to Your Lawyer)
Calls from Orange County jails are recorded. Any phone conversations with family, friends, or even fellow inmates could be monitored and later used against you. Only discuss case details with your attorney.
- Don’t Lie to Law Enforcement
If you lie to police or provide false identification, you could face charges for providing false information to a peace officer under Penal Code 148.9 PC. If you’re not sure what to say, say nothing—silence is your right.
- Don’t Post About It on Social Media
Posting about your arrest or charges can seriously hurt your case. Prosecutors may use photos, comments, or even vague statements as evidence. Until your case is resolved, stay off social media.
Here’s Some Important Info on Orange County Jails You Should Know
If you’re arrested in Orange County, you’ll likely be taken to:
- Orange County Central Jail Complex (Santa Ana)
- Theo Lacy Facility (Orange)
- James A. Musick Facility (Irvine)
Bail amounts vary by offense, but Orange County judges follow a standardized bail schedule. Felonies usually come with higher bail, while misdemeanors can sometimes be resolved with a cite-and-release or own-recognizance release (OR). If bail is required, Orange County Bail Bonds can assist immediately.
Need Help Posting Bail in Orange County?
At Orange County Bail Bonds, we know that time is everything. Every hour spent in jail is an hour away from work, family, and building your defense. We offer:
- 24/7 bail bond services
- Flexible payment plans
- Bilingual agents
- Fast release from Orange County jails
Our experienced bail agents know the local courts, jails, and procedures. We’ll walk you through the process step-by-step confidentially and respectfully.
