When it comes to getting arrested, posting bail, dealing with trial, and all that not-so-good-stuff, the length of time it takes can vary depending on the defendant and the situation. However, the general steps are the same:

• Arrest
• Booking
• Arraignment
• Post bail
• Prepare for trial
• Trial

Booking occurs immediately after the arrest. The arraignment follows shortly thereafter. If a defendant is eligible to post bail, then the immediacy of jail release is dependent on how quickly the defendant and his or her loved ones can gather up the money for bail.

Bail can be in the tens and hundreds of thousands of dollars. Getting this sum of money for cash bail can take some time...