Know Your Rights: How Long Can Police Hold You Without Charges?

Understanding how long can police hold you without charges: the basics, and what to do if your rights are in question.

Overview

In California, a person arrested without a warrant generally has to be brought before a judge within a short period, counted in court days. The exact rules and exceptions are set by law.

How It Works

Weekends and holidays can affect when that happens. Check with the jail or an attorney for the specifics of your situation.

What This Means for Families

If someone has been held a long time with no word of charges, an attorney can inquire with the court.

Questions for Your Defense Lawyer

Consider asking:

Who will represent the person if a private attorney is not hired?
What are the next deadlines?
Are protective or no-contact orders involved?
What does the court expect of the person after release?

Before You Call a Bail Agent

Gather what you can from this list before you call:

The jail or station where the person is held
The charges, if known
Your own name and phone number
The person's full legal name and date of birth
The booking number, if you have it

How Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts Can Help

Bail Bonds Monterey Park Experts is based at 220 S. Glendora Ave Suite J, Glendora, CA 91741 and takes calls at (626) 513-8778 (open 24 hours / 7 days). For your rights: how long can police hold you without charges?, an agent can explain how bonds work in Los Angeles County, where people are held after an arrest by Monterey Park Police Department, such as Men's Central Jail, and which courthouse, for example Alhambra Courthouse (serving Monterey Park), hears the case.

Keep in Mind

A bail agent can explain how a bond works and what the written agreement requires of the person who signs. A bail agent cannot give legal advice, predict how a case will end or influence the court. For questions about a charge, speak with a criminal defense attorney.