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Awaiting a court date becomes stressful. There are so many things to consider. After an arrest, waiting for court requires taking the correct steps to protect your rights. It is customary for people to have anxiety and even some degree of fear when awaiting their court dates. Knowing what to expect on the date and what to do while waiting will keep your mind from worrying.

You Have Rights Afforded to You Under the Law

Regardless of your guilt or innocence, you have rights afforded to you under the law. One of the rights you hold is to be granted bail. After your arrest, you will have to wait for the judge to hold the bail hearing. Once bail is decided by the judge, you have the right to seek bail bonds in Los Angeles. Most people want to get out of jail quickly and go home to await trial. Those who do not have the money to pay their cash bail have the right to hire a bondsman and get out of jail rapidly.

You Have the Right to Hire an Attorney

When having your Miranda rights read, one of the things you will hear is that you have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed to you. You are going to need a defense attorney, no matter how minor your criminal charges are. Going to court without an attorney is unwise and could lead to an unfair outcome. While an attorney cannot guarantee any result, they will protect your rights and best interests and make the process of going through court less stressful.

Make Sure You Adhere to the Conditions of Release

When a judge decides bail, they will also determine the conditions of release. You may be required to submit to drug testing or maintain employment. One of the most significant mistakes you can make is not adhering to the conditions of your release. Judges have the authority to revoke your bond if you fail to follow the conditions. Some issues that can bring you back in for arrest are a positive drug test, failure to retain employment, or contacting any victim, among others.

It is in your best interest to follow the rules while you are awaiting trial. Stay out of trouble, or you could end up with further charges that make serving jail time more likely. Breaking the law makes a poor impression on the judge, and you do not want that to happen.

Seek Drug or Alcohol Treatment

Many people end up with criminal charges because of drugs and alcohol. If your charges stem from these, consider seeking treatment. In fact, the conditions of your release may require you to seek drug or alcohol treatment if you were charged with a crime like a DUI. Anyone can make a mistake. The critical thing to do when facing criminal charges is to try to avoid them in the future. Getting professional help will assist you in staying out of trouble and make a judge look more favorably upon you.

Adhere to All Court Dates

While awaiting your court date, you must make sure you know when and where you are to appear. You do not want to miss a court date, or you could be brought back in under a bench warrant. Failure to appear also results in the revocation of your bond. The bail bondsman could come looking for you and bring you in to stand trial. It is also essential that you show up on time for court. Being late for your court date puts you in a bad light with the judge and could lead to problems. Be on time and show up every time.

Bottom Line When Waiting for Your Court Date

By following the tips above, you can protect your rights and best interests as a defendant. After an arrest, you should seek bail as soon as possible. It is also vital you get legal representation from an attorney. With the information above, waiting for trial will be less stressful.