One of the most difficult aspects of being charged with domestic violence is understanding the process of being charged, being booked, getting the mandatory protection order, and then posting a bond.
In any domestic violence charge, you will have to go into custody before you can be given a bond. This is due to the fact that in every domestic violence case a mandatory protection order must be issued by the court before a bond can be posted.
Often, a client is arrested at the scene so they have no choice on when and how they arrive at the jail. But what if you know you have a warrant? When should you turn yourself in? In general, the best time to turn yourself in is on a Tuesday or Wednesday before 10:00 p.m. so that you can make the next morning’s docket. Does this ensure you will make the next morning docket? No, but it is the best chance.
After booking comes to your court appearance. You will be read the charge, the court will enter a mandatory protection order, and a bond will be given.
It is crucial to read the mandatory protection order more than once. The mandatory protection order is an order of the court and nobody other than the court can change its terms and conditions. When in doubt, error on the side of caution.
An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you through the initial process of a domestic violence charge. The earlier you get help, the more you will understand the process.