What to Have Ready
for Bail
A simple guide for family, friends, and cosigners helping with the bail process
If someone sent you this page, it means CityWide Bail Bonds is handling or will be handling bail. This guide explains what information may be needed, what happens next, and how to get updates. Keep it handy.
What CityWide May Need
You may have already submitted some of this through a form. That is fine. This list is just a reference in case CityWide asks for more details or in case something was missing. You do not need everything on this list to start, but having it ready helps things move faster.
Full name of the person in custody
First name and last name, exactly as they appear on a government-issued ID. Middle name if you have it.
Jail or county where they are being held
The name of the jail, city, or county. If you are not sure, tell us what you know and CityWide can help find the right location.
Booking number (if you have it)
This is a number the jail assigns when someone is booked. It is often on paperwork the person received at arrest, or you may be able to find it through an online inmate search. It is helpful but not required to start.
Bail amount (if you know it)
If a judge has set bail, include that amount. If bail has not been set yet or you are not sure, that is OK. CityWide can look it up once the person is in the system.
Your contact information
A phone number and email address where CityWide can reach you. Let us know the best time to call if you have a preference.
Any paperwork or documents CityWide asks for
CityWide will let you know specifically what documents may be needed as the process moves forward.
What Happens Next
Here is what typically happens once CityWide has the information needed to move forward.
CityWide reviews the information
A licensed bail agent reviews what was submitted. This can happen at any hour, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
A team member may contact you
Depending on the situation, CityWide may reach out to confirm details, ask a question, or walk you through the next step. They will use the contact information provided.
More details may be requested
Some situations require additional documents or information. CityWide will be clear about exactly what is needed and why.
Release timing varies by jail and county
Once bail is posted, the jail processes the paperwork on their timeline. Local police stations often release in under an hour. County jails typically take 2 to 8 hours depending on how busy they are. CityWide cannot control how fast each jail moves, but will let you know what to expect.
Updates are provided as things move forward
CityWide keeps you informed as the case progresses. You can ask for a status update at any time by calling or texting.
What Can Slow Things Down
There are a few common things that can delay the process. Some are within your control, and some are not. Knowing about them ahead of time helps manage expectations.
Missing or incorrect booking information
If the name or booking number is wrong, the jail cannot find the record. Double-check spelling before submitting.
Jail processing delays
Some jails are busier than others, especially on weekends and holidays. Processing time is controlled by the jail, not CityWide.
Missing signatures or documents
Some cases require paperwork to be signed. If CityWide is waiting on a signature, the release cannot proceed until that is completed.
Payment or paperwork issues
If a payment does not go through or documents are incomplete, CityWide will let you know right away so it can be resolved quickly.
County or jail timing differences
Every county and every jail operates differently. Some move faster than others. CityWide works with jails across all 58 California counties and knows what to expect from each one.
How Updates Work
CityWide will communicate with you as the bail process moves forward. Here is how that typically works.
Text Message
Quick updates sent directly to your phone number. Good for time-sensitive status changes.
Written updates to the email address you provided. Useful for keeping a record of what was communicated.
Phone Call
Direct calls when something needs to be discussed or confirmed. CityWide will call the number you provided.
You can also reach out any time
You do not have to wait for CityWide to contact you. If you have a question or want a status update, call or text anytime. CityWide answers 24 hours a day.
1-833-385-5245Need Help Right Now?
If you have not yet started the bail process and need to do so now, or if you have an urgent question, reach out to CityWide directly. There is no voicemail. An agent picks up every call.
Fastest Option
Call CityWide Now
We answer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. No voicemail. No hold music. A real person picks up.
1-833-385-5245Start Online
Submit Bail Intake Online
Go to the Start Bail Fast page to submit your information and a CityWide agent will follow up with you directly.
START BAIL INTAKEIf the situation is urgent, call instead of submitting a form.
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