How to Get Someone Out of Jail: A Complete Guide by Cowboy Bail Bonds

When a loved one is arrested, time feels like it stands still. Whether it’s a first-time offense or a misunderstanding, getting someone out of jail quickly is often the top priority. At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we’ve helped thousands of families navigate this stressful moment. Here’s everything you need to know about how to get someone out of jail — fast, legally, and with confidence.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Get the Basic Info

Before you do anything else, you’ll need a few key details about the person who was arrested:

  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Booking number (if available)
  • Location of the jail or holding facility
  • Type of charge(s)

If you don’t know which jail they’re in, you can call the county jail’s main number or check online inmate locators.

Step 2: Understand the Charges and Bail Amount

Once someone is arrested, a judge or magistrate will set a bail amount. This amount varies depending on the crime, past record, and other factors. In California, counties like Kern County (Bakersfield) have a standard bail schedule, but it can still change based on the case details.

Examples of bail amounts:

  • DUI: $5,000 – $15,000
  • Drug possession: $10,000 – $25,000
  • Assault: $20,000 – $50,000
  • Felony theft: $35,000+
  • Domestic violence: $50,000+

You’ll either wait for a bail hearing or receive this amount during booking.

Step 3: Decide How to Pay for Bail

There are three common options to get someone released:

1. Pay the Full Amount in Cash

You can pay the entire bail amount directly to the court. If the person shows up to all required court dates, you’ll get your money back (minus any court fees). However, you’ll need to pay the full amount up front, which isn’t possible for most families.

2. Use a Bail Bondsman (Like Cowboy Bail Bonds)

A bail bondsman pays the full bail amount for you in exchange for a non-refundable fee, typically 10% of the total bail.

Example: If bail is set at $25,000, you would pay Cowboy Bail Bonds $2,500. We cover the rest and handle all communication with the jail and court.

  • We offer flexible payment plans
  • No collateral in many cases
  • Agents available 24/7

Contact us now if you need help posting bail fast.

3. Property Bond

In some rare cases, you can offer property (like a house) as collateral. This is a slower process and requires court approval.

Step 4: Complete the Paperwork and Start the Release Process

Once you choose a payment method, the bail agent will file paperwork with the jail, and the jail processes the release. This can take anywhere from 1–6 hours depending on the jail’s workload.

At Cowboy Bail Bonds, we streamline the process with:

  • Online bail applications
  • Phone consultations
  • Mobile bail services in Bakersfield and surrounding areas

Where to Bail Someone Out in Bakersfield

Cowboy Bail Bonds handles bail services for all major locations in Kern County:

  • Lerdo Jail (Lerdo Pre-Trial Facility)
  • Kern County Jail
  • Bakersfield Police Department Detention Center
  • Local Courthouses

What Happens After They’re Released?

Once your loved one is released on bail, they’ll need to:

  • Follow any release conditions (like staying in the area)
  • Attend all court hearings
  • Check in with Cowboy Bail Bonds if required

Missing court or breaking any rules can result in re-arrest and forfeiting bail or collateral.

FAQs About Getting Someone Out of Jail

Can I bail someone out on the weekend?

Yes — Cowboy Bail Bonds is open 24/7, 365 days a year, including holidays and weekends.

Do I get the bail bond fee back?

No — the 10% fee is non-refundable, as it’s a service fee for posting bail on your behalf.

How long does it take to get someone released?

It depends on the jail, but Cowboy Bail Bonds often has people out within 1–3 hours.

Why Choose Cowboy Bail Bonds?

We’re not just another bail company. We’re local, trusted, and experienced — and we know how to work fast. Whether it’s your first time dealing with the legal system or your third, we guide you with care, professionalism, and urgency.

Don’t Wait — Bail Help Is Just a Call Away

The sooner you call, the sooner we can start the process. Whether it’s for a friend, family member, or yourself — Cowboy Bail Bonds is here to help you take control of the situation and bring your loved one home.