Depending on the type of case you have, a judge may require that you post a bail in order to get out of custody. Certain cases, such as DWI/DUI’s can have mandatory bail. For instance, if you are arrested for a DWI/DUI and your blood alcohol concentration is .16 or above, it is mandatory that the court set bail in the amount of $12,000. Until that is done, you cannot be released from custody. This bail is set to ensure that you return for court. If you post a bail and do not return for court, that bail will be forfeited by the court and a warrant will be put out for your arrest. Getting a bail set can be accomplished a few different ways. If you are arrested, you can wait until you are brought to court and a judge will address it at that time. However, if you are arrested on a Friday night, that means that you will be sitting for the entire weekend, as there is no court on Saturday or Sunday. The other option is to hire an attorney right away and have that attorney try to get in touch with the prosecutor and a judge to attempt to get bail set. The attorney can also help you to get in touch with a bail bond company so that you can get the bail posted right away. If the attorney is successful, you will be able to get out of custody much earlier. If you find yourself or a loved one in custody for a criminal offense, call the experienced attorneys at Gerald Miller P.A. to discuss the circumstances and try to get a bail set right away.