Reader’s Question:

We are in the process of figuring out how to get my sister out of jail after her DUI arrest last night here in Washington, DC. In a DUI case, how does the bail process work?

Simon

Washington, DC

After the booking process following your sister’s a DUI arrest in Washington, DC, the next phase is what is known as bail. This is simply a promise to appear in court for the exchange of money and it is often set based on a predetermined “bail schedule”. In some DUI cases, the judge may base the figure on the severity of the DUI offense, ability to pay, criminal and DUI history, as well as relation to family and employment.

The bail may be posted by anyone in your family and even a friend can do that. It could also be done by what is known as a bail bondsman. A bail agency will provide your sister a written contract stating that the full bail amount must be paid if the she fails to appear in court. Bondsmen and bail agencies charge fees for their service. Most of the time, they may also require a collateral before posting a bond to ensure the DUI suspect’s appearance in court. The key here is to consult a DUI lawyer during this very significant process after your sister’s DUI arrest.

Tags: drunk driving laws, DUI, DUI advice, DUI arrest, DUI lawyer