Most people have never been inside a jail and have no idea what happens after the handcuffs go on. Here's the actual timeline so you can plan.
Arrest and transport
Officers transport the arrestee to a local police jail or sheriff's station. From there, depending on the charge and facility, they may be held locally or transferred to a county intake jail.
Booking
Booking is the official entry into custody — fingerprints, photo, property inventory, medical screening, and search. It takes 2–6 hours and the arrestee is mostly out of contact during it.
Bail set
For most charges, bail is set automatically from the county bail schedule. Felonies, holds, and violations require a judge — meaning the wait may be until arraignment.
Release or arraignment
If bail is paid (or bonded), release happens directly from the jail. Otherwise the defendant is brought to court for arraignment within 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays).
Bail bonds in the cities covered above
Pick your city for local pricing, jail addresses, and 24/7 release help.
Jails mentioned in this guide
Each jail page lists realistic release timing, the bond-posting window, and the inmate locator.
Updated October 23, 2026 · Information only — not legal advice. For specific situations call (909) 406-6909.