Can You Use Your Tax Refund to Pay Bail? Financial Tips for Families During Arrest Situations

When someone you love is arrested for the first time, it can feel overwhelming. At Angels Bail Bonds, we help first-time families every single day.

Every year, thousands of people are arrested while visiting friends and family—or even just passing through another county or state. An unexpected arrest far from home can be overwhelming, especially during the busiest time of year.

Preparation can make all the difference in how your case is handled and how confident you feel walking into the courtroom. We’ve helped hundreds of clients navigate this process successfully.

Facing a domestic violence (DV) charge in North Carolina is a serious matter that can have immediate consequences—even before your case goes to trial. If you or a loved one has been arrested on a DV-related charge, it’s important to understand how North Carolina law treats these cases, how bail is set, and what role protective orders and judge discretion can play in the process. Domestic Violence Charges in North Carolina Domestic violence cases in North Carolina typically involve allegations of assault, threats, harassment, stalking, or other criminal behavior against a spouse, partner, family member, or household member. Even a misdemeanor DV charge is handled differently than other criminal charges due to the safety concerns of alleged victims. The Bail Process: What Makes DV Different When someone is arrested for a domestic violence offense, the bail process is not as straightforward as it is for many other charges. North Carolina law (specifically N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-534.1 ) requires special rules for setting bond in these cases. 48-Hour Rule In DV cases, bond is usually not set immediately after arrest. Instead, the law requires that only a judge—not a magistrate—can set conditions of release within the first 48 hours of arrest. If no judge is available within that time frame, a magistrate may step in after the 48-hour window.  Although individuals are generally required to wait up to 48 hours before appearing before a judge, this is not always the case. For example, if the court is in session the following day after the arrest, the accused may be brought before a judge sooner. Judge’s Discretion At the bond hearing, the judge has broad discretion to decide: The type of bond (secured, unsecured, cash, or surety). The amount of bond, depending on the seriousness of the allegations, prior criminal history, and risk factors. Additional release conditions, such as no-contact orders , electronic monitoring, or substance abuse restrictions. Due to this discretion, outcomes can vary significantly from case to case. Protective Orders and Bail Protective orders—commonly known as 50B orders in North Carolina—play a critical role in DV cases. A judge may issue a protective order that restricts contact between the defendant and the alleged victim. These restrictions can directly impact the bail process. For example: Violating a protective order after release can lead to immediate re-arrest and new charges. Judges often consider protective orders when deciding whether the defendant poses a threat to the alleged victim or the community. What to Expect at a Bail Hearing If you or your loved one is facing a DV bond hearing in North Carolina, here are key things to know: The judge will review the allegations, criminal history, and risk of harm to the alleged victim. A bail bondsman can help secure release once the bond is set, provided all court-ordered conditions are met. The court may add strict conditions —such as staying away from a residence, avoiding certain people, or surrendering firearms. Why This Matters Domestic violence charges carry heavy legal and personal consequences, and the first 48 hours after arrest are often the most stressful. Understanding how the law works in North Carolina can help families prepare for what to expect and make informed decisions about bail. If you or someone you care about has been arrested on a domestic violence charge, working with Angel Bail Bonds can provide guidance and support during this challenging process. Please call us at (919) 280-1830. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for confidential support and assistance.

A new semester comes with a noticeable uptick in arrests. Each fall, local law enforcement agencies see patterns that are tied directly to the back-to-school season.

Dealing with an arrest or court date in North Carolina can be stressful. As your trusted Raleigh bail bonds agency, Angels Bail Bonds created a guide to help you.

Get to know your bail bondsman in North Carolina, Dilber Jimenez.

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most common reasons for arrest across North Carolina. The consequences can be severe: fines, license suspension, jail time, and a criminal record that follows you for years. At Angels Bail Bonds, we understand that people make mistakes. We're here to provide support, fast bail service, and clear guidance when you or someone you care about is facing a DUI charge in North Carolina. The Numbers Behind the Charges DUI arrests in Wake County alone (where Raleigh is located) majorly affect local jail bookings. In fact: In 2023, the Wake County Police Department reported over 100 DUI-related arrests DUI arrests tend to spike during holidays and significant events (Memorial Day, July 4th, New Year's Eve) Young adults (ages 21–34) make up a large portion of those arrested for impaired driving With Raleigh’s growing population and nightlife scene, law enforcement is increasing efforts to crack down on impaired driving through sobriety checkpoints and patrols. What Happens After a DUI Arrest People arrested for DUI are typically taken to jail. From there: They undergo booking and processing A judge may set a bond amount based on the charge and criminal history Once the bond is set, they can be released with the help of a licensed bail bondsman This is where Angels Bail Bonds steps in. Why Choose Angels Bail Bonds? 24/7 Bail Services across North Carolina Fast response times—we understand the urgency Transparent fees and no hidden costs Compassionate, non-judgmental service during a stressful time Local knowledge of the legal system We’re not just a bail company—we’re a support system when you need it most. Preventing DUIs: A Community Responsibility While we’re here to help after an arrest, we also believe in prevention. DUI-related incidents are entirely avoidable with the proper planning: Always designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service Know your limits and avoid getting behind the wheel impaired Look out for friends and loved ones—don’t let someone drive drunk Remember, a DUI in North Carolina can cost $10,000 or more in fines, legal fees, insurance increases, and lost time Need Help Now? Call Angels Bail Bonds If you or a loved one has been arrested for DUI, don’t wait. We’re available 24/7 to help get you out quickly and back to what matters most. Serving Raleigh areas and beyond. Call Now: (919) 280 1830 Angels Bail Bonds—Because everyone deserves a second chance.

As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, one thing is certain: summer is when things start to heat up in more ways than one. Backyard parties turn into block parties. Beach days turn into bonfire nights. Concerts, festivals, late-night cruises, and spontaneous road trips become the norm. With all that fun comes excitement, freedom… and sometimes, a little too much alcohol. Things happen if it's too many drinks at a holiday cookout, a bar fight that escalates, or a night out that goes sideways. And when they do, we’re here.  The Summer Effect: Why Arrests Spike Summer tends to bring a spike in arrests across the country. Why? More public gatherings = more chances for conflict Heat-induced tempers flare faster DUI charges tend to rise with more weekend partying Vacation vibes can lower inhibitions and raise risk-taking Even good people make mistakes when the summer energy hits. That’s where Angels Bail Bonds in Raleigh, North Carolina, comes in. When Things Go Sideways, We’ve Got You At Angels Bail Bonds, we’re not here to judge but to help. We’re available 24/7 to get your loved ones out fast, no matter the charge. We know the ins and outs of the legal system in and around Raleigh, and work quickly to reunite families and keep the summer moving forward. Save Our Number Before the First BBQ You never know when you might need a bail bondsman. If summer gets too wild, having us on speed dial could make all the difference. Quick, confidential, and professional—that’s our promise. So go ahead, enjoy your summer. Just remember, if things get out of hand, you’ve got a team that’s just one call away. Amgels Bail Bonds – Fast. Friendly. Reliable. Available 24/7 – Call Now: (919) 280-1830.