Your spouse didn't come home. Then you get the call — they've been arrested. Whether it's a DUI, a misunderstanding, or something more serious, you need to act fast and think clearly. This guide walks you through it.
If It's a Domestic Violence Charge
This is the most important thing to know: if your spouse was arrested for domestic violence, there will be an automatic no-contact order. Even after posting bail, they cannot come home, call you, text you, or contact you through anyone else until a judge modifies the order. Violating it is a separate crime.
This can be devastating when you actually want them home. But the law requires it. Your lawyer can petition to modify the no-contact order — usually within a few days to a week.
For All Other Charges
1. Find Out Where They Are
Search the county's inmate lookup online or call the jail directly. Get the charges and bail amount.
2. Post Bail Fast
Call QuickBail at (941) 477-6888. We connect you with a bondsman in minutes. You pay 10% of the bail. If money is tight, many bondsmen offer payment plans.
3. Protect Your Finances
If the charges could affect your joint finances (fraud, embezzlement, etc.), talk to a lawyer about protecting your assets. You don't have to make any decisions right now — just be aware.
4. Think About the Kids
If you have children, they're going to have questions. Keep it age-appropriate. For young kids: "Mom/Dad had a problem and is talking to some people about it. They'll be home soon." You don't need to explain bail bonds to a 6-year-old.
5. Get a Good Lawyer
A criminal defense attorney is essential. If you can't afford one, the court will appoint a public defender. But if you can swing a private attorney, it's usually worth it — they'll have more time to dedicate to the case.
Taking Care of Yourself
This is stressful. It's OK to be angry, scared, or confused. But right now, focus on the practical steps. The emotional processing can come later — ideally with a counselor or therapist if this is serious.
The Booking Pipeline: First 12 Hours
Being booked into a county jail for what to do when your spouse gets is an exhaustive process. Inmates are stripped of their civilian clothing and issued jail uniforms if they are not bonding out immediately. The biometric data collected is cross-referenced with federal databases to check for outstanding warrants or immigration holds, which can severely delay the release process.
First Appearance & Judicial Review
If the standard bail schedule does not apply, or if the defendant cannot afford the amount set for what to do when your spouse gets, they must wait for First Appearance. Under Florida law, this hearing must occur within 24 hours of arrest. The judge will review the probable cause affidavit and determine if the bond should be lowered, raised, or maintained.
Bail Bonds vs. Cash Bonds
Utilizing a surety agent for what to do when your spouse gets charges provides financial leverage. Instead of liquidating savings to pay the court directly, the family pays a state-regulated 10% fee. The bondsman assumes the financial risk. However, the indemnitor (the person signing the contract) is fully liable for the entire bond amount if the defendant skips court.
Critical Mistakes While Out on Bond
A common pitfall after being bonded out for what to do when your spouse gets is leaving the jurisdiction. Most bail contracts explicitly forbid the defendant from leaving the state (and sometimes the county) without written permission from the bondsman and the court. Violating this travel restriction can lead to immediate surrender of the bond.