- Call Bail Angels at (619) 270-2300 — we will locate your child and confirm bail
- Gather what you know: full name, date of birth, where arrested, charges if known
- Contact a criminal defense attorney — bail gets them out, a lawyer protects their future
- Do not discuss the case on recorded jail calls
- Prepare for the emotional conversation you will have when they get home
425 Tenth Ave Suite #100, San Diego, California 92101
My Child Was Arrested — What Should I Do?
A parent’s guide to navigating an arrest with clarity, speed, and love.
There is no fear quite like the fear a parent feels when their child is in handcuffs.
Whether your child is 18 or 45, the instinct is the same: get them out, get them help, and protect their future.
First: Is Your Child a Juvenile or an Adult?
If They Are Under 18
The juvenile justice system operates differently. Juveniles are usually held in juvenile detention facilities, not adult jails. Bail in the traditional sense may not apply — instead a probation officer typically decides whether to release the juvenile to a parent, hold them for a detention hearing, or refer the case to adult court for serious offenses.
If your child is under 18, call us. We can advise you on what applies to your specific situation.
If They Are 18 or Older
Adult children are processed through the regular adult criminal justice system. The same bail process applies, and the same urgency applies. As a parent, you can post bail on their behalf.
What Parents Often Get Wrong in the First Hour
Waiting to see what happens
Many parents hope the situation will resolve itself. In most cases it will not. The clock is running from the moment of arrest.
Calling the jail repeatedly
Jail staff cannot provide detailed legal guidance. Your time is better spent calling a bail bondsman and an attorney — people who can actually move things forward.
Discussing the case on recorded jail calls
Jail phone calls are recorded and can be used as evidence. During booking, focus on gathering information only — not discussing the facts of the case.
The 5 Things to Do Right Now
Will This Ruin Their Future?
It does not have to. The actions taken in the first 24–72 hours matter enormously.
Getting your child out on bail allows them to:
- Continue school or work, avoiding academic or employment consequences
- Explore diversion programs, especially for first-time offenders
- Demonstrate to the court that they have family support and stability
- Avoid the psychological and physical risks of prolonged detention
California offers various diversion programs for young adults and first-time offenders — programs that may allow charges to be dismissed or reduced upon completion. Your child can only pursue these options effectively from the outside.
How Bail Angels Supports Parents
We have helped many parents in exactly your position. We know you are not just trying to post bail — you are trying to protect your child’s future. Our team will treat your family with compassion, respect, and complete confidentiality.
Need Help Right Now? Call Bail Angels — 24/7
Our compassionate, bilingual team is ready to help — day or night. (619) 270-2300
We walk you through every step in plain English or Spanish and start your loved one’s release immediately.