For Families

Your husband was just arrested. Your son called from the jail. Your daughter’s boyfriend won’t tell her anything. You’re the one making the phone calls, finding the money, figuring out what happens next — and everyone’s looking at you for answers.

You didn’t go to law school. You shouldn’t have to navigate this alone.

This page is for you.

What You Can Do in the First 48 Hours

Don’t talk to police about what happened

Not even to clear things up. Not even to help. Especially not to help. Police aren’t gathering information to find the truth at this point — they’re gathering information to support the case already being built. Tell them politely that your loved one will be represented by counsel.

Don’t post on social media

Yours, theirs, or anyone else’s. Prosecutors screenshot social media. A well-meaning post defending your loved one can become exhibit A.

Do write down everything you know

Where were they? Who was there? What time did it happen? What have you been told? Dates and times fade fast. Write it while it’s fresh.

Do call a lawyer before you call anyone else

Before bail bondsmen. Before the courthouse. Before the other family. A five-minute call to us can save you days of figuring out what to do.

What to Expect at a Bail Hearing

A magistrate will set bond based on the severity of the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and ties to the community. This hearing often happens within 24–48 hours of arrest, most of the time without an attorney present. An attorney present at this hearing can argue for a lower bond or personal recognizance release.

If bond is set, you have two options: pay the full amount to the court (refunded if the defendant appears for all hearings), or use a bondsman who typically charges 10–15% of the bond amount as a non-refundable fee.

What You Can and Can’t Do

You can hire an attorney on your loved one’s behalf. You can provide character references. You can attend hearings. What you cannot do is discuss the case with police, post about it publicly, or contact the alleged victim — in domestic violence cases especially, contact from family members can constitute witness tampering.

When to Call Us

Now. Not after the arraignment. Not after the plea offer comes in. The earlier we’re involved, the more options we have. Call (903) 533-9000 any time — we answer 24 hours a day because arrests don’t happen during business hours.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Viewing this website or communicating through it does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is established only through a signed agreement with Murphy & Baker Law Firm, PLLC.

Consultations are available by appointment only.