Suddenly discovering that a friend or loved one is in jail can be a frightening experience. It’s even more overwhelming if you’re the one behind bars. Fortunately, there are ways to secure a fast release and navigate this challenging situation.

What Happens When You Get Arrested in Los Angeles?

If you are arrested in Los Angeles, law enforcement will place you in handcuffs and transport you to the nearest police station. Once there, the booking process begins. This involves being fingerprinted, having your mugshot taken, and providing personal background information. All of this information is entered into the law enforcement computer system.

The booking process typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on the station’s workload. After booking, you may be held in a local holding cell or transferred to one of the larger facilities in Los Angeles, such as the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Jail, Twin Towers Correctional Facility, or Men’s Central Jail.

If you are transferred to a larger jail, it can take up to 12 to 24 hours for your bail to be processed due to the volume of inmates. During this time, it is important to contact a bail bond service to expedite your release and minimize your time in custody.