Being arrested is terrifying — especially if you've never been through the process before. Understanding what happens step by step gives you power. Here is the complete process for adult arrests in King County, Washington.
Step 1: The Arrest
Police must have probable cause to arrest you. This means they need specific facts suggesting you committed a crime — not just a hunch. At the moment of arrest, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Invoke both immediately: "I am invoking my right to remain silent and I want to speak to an attorney."
Do not explain. Do not justify. Do not try to talk your way out of it. Anything you say will be used against you — not just in court, but in the arrest report that forms the foundation of the prosecution's case.
Step 2: Booking
You'll be transported to the King County Jail (or a local municipal jail) for booking. This involves: fingerprinting, photographing (mugshot), recording personal information, inventory of your belongings, and a health screening. Booking typically takes 2–6 hours.
Step 3: Bail Determination
For most misdemeanors, a bail schedule allows release within a few hours after payment. For felonies, bail is set at arraignment or a separate bail hearing — usually within 24–72 hours. Factors affecting bail include the severity of the charge, criminal history, ties to the community, and flight risk.
Step 4: Arraignment
Arraignment is your first court appearance, usually within 24–72 hours of arrest for in-custody defendants. You will be formally charged, enter an initial plea (almost always "not guilty"), and bail will be confirmed or modified. This is where having an attorney already in place makes a significant difference — we appear at arraignment for you.
Step 5: Pre-Trial Process
After arraignment, the case enters the pre-trial phase: discovery (obtaining all evidence the prosecution has), motions to suppress evidence, plea negotiations, and hearing scheduling. This phase can last weeks to months depending on the complexity of the case.
The Most Important Thing You Can Do Right Now
Call an attorney immediately. Not after booking. Not after arraignment. Now. The first 24 hours are critical — evidence can be preserved, witnesses located, and sometimes charges can be influenced before they're formally filed.