If someone you care about has just been arrested in New Orleans, it’s normal to feel panicked or unsure about what to do next. The truth is, the decisions you make in the first few hours can have a major impact on what happens next—and that’s why your first call should be to a criminal defense attorney. Here’s how the process works in New Orleans, and why having an experienced attorney on your side from the start can save time, money, and stress.
Step 1: Call a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately
Before calling the jail or trying to post bail, talk to an attorney. A local New Orleans defense lawyer can:
- Contact the jail on your behalf
- Confirm charges and bond amount
- Request a bond reduction or ROR (release on recognizance)
- Advocate for faster release
- Protect your loved one’s rights from the beginning
In some cases, having an attorney involved early can even mean the difference between sitting in jail and walking free within hours.
Step 2: Confirm Where They’re Being Held
In New Orleans, most arrests result in the person being taken to the Orleans Justice Center (OJC). This is the main jail facility for Orleans Parish.
Your attorney can locate the person quickly, but if you’re checking on your own call (504) 202-9339.
Have the person’s full name and date of birth ready when you call.
Step 3: Understand the Charges and Bail
After someone is booked, a judge will review the case—typically within 72 hours—and decide whether to set bail, and how much. The bail amount depends on factors like:
- The severity of the charge
- The person’s criminal record
- Whether they’re considered a flight risk
A defense attorney can attend this initial appearance and argue for lower bail or even request release without bail.
Step 4: Explore Release Options
Depending on the case, your attorney may recommend one of the following ways to secure release:
Cash Bail
You or a loved one can pay the full bail amount directly to the court. If all court appearances are met, most of the money is refundable.
Bail Bondsman
If the bail is too high to pay out of pocket, your attorney may refer you to a licensed bail bondsman. The bondsman usually charges a non-refundable 10–12% of the total bail amount and may require collateral.
Release on Recognizance (ROR)
For non-violent or first-time offenses, the court may allow the individual to be released with a promise to appear in court—no money required. This is more likely to happen if a defense attorney is involved early in the process.
Step 5: Wait for Release
Once bail is posted or release is granted, the jail will process the release paperwork. This can take anywhere from 2 to 12 hours, depending on the time of day and how busy the facility is.
During this time, your attorney can stay in contact with the jail and keep you updated.
What Happens If They Miss a Court Date?
It’s critical that the person shows up for every required court appearance. Missing court can result in:
- A bench warrant being issued
- Bail being forfeited
- Possible re-arrest
Your attorney can help ensure that court dates are clearly communicated and represented if necessary.
Why Hiring a Defense Attorney First Is the Smartest Move
In New Orleans, the criminal justice system moves fast—but not always in your favor. Trying to navigate it alone can lead to unnecessary costs, delays, and complications. When you call an attorney first, you’re getting:
- A legal advocate in your loved one’s corner from the start
- Someone who knows how to work with the Orleans Parish court and jail system
- A strategy for release, not just a transaction
Need Help Now? Call a New Orleans Criminal Defense Attorney
Don’t wait. Speak to a local criminal defense attorney who can guide you through every step, fight for their release, and protect their rights from day one. Call Craig Mordock, an experienced New Orleans criminal defense lawyer who understands how to protect your rights, guide you through the process, and fight for the best possible outcome.
📞 Call Craig now at 504-304-2335.
Your freedom and future are too important to leave to chance.