Getting arrested is emotionally stressful and debilitating. But if you have a disability, it can be even more daunting. That’s because people with disabilities face all sorts of discrimination on a daily basis.
A study from Cornell University found that those with disabilities were 44% more likely to be arrested before they turned 28 years of age. Those without a disability had a 30% chance of being arrested by 28.
It might seem obvious, but it’s actually against the law to discriminate based on a disability. The American Disabilities Act protects the rights of people with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities—and there are a lot of people who fit into that category. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 61 million people, or one quarter of the adult population in the U.S., live with a disability.
What to Do if a Disabled Person Gets Arrested?
Despite discrimination towards those with disabilities being against the law, it still happens. Below are some of the most important things you can do if you get arrested and have a disability
Hire an Attorney
If you get arrested, you’ll want to hire an attorney. But make sure you hire an attorney that specialized in defending those who have a disability. Doing so can greatly improve your chances of success. That’s because the field of disability law is highly specialized.
Explain the Disability to the Court
It’s important that you, or your attorney, explain what your disability is with the judge and prosecutor. It’s important for everyone associated with any case to know because it could be a motivating factor behind the charge.
Explaining any disability also ensures the courts understand your needs, making it easier for you to fully participate with the case. For example, if you are deaf or hard of hearing, the courts must provide you with assisted listening devices or real-time captioning devices.
Mention Treatments and Medication
Make sure the attorney is aware of any medications or treatments that have been prescribed to you so that the court and jail can do what they need to get you everything necessary.
What Is the Bail Bonds Process?
To actually get arrested there has to be probably cause, or at least enough evidence to suggest a person is guilty. If you do get arrested, you will be transported to the police station, where you will go for fingerprinting. Before a hearing with the judge, you will also need to fill out any and all necessary paperwork.
If the judge does not think you are dangerous or a flight risk, they will set bail. If bail is posted, you’ll be free to leave until the next court hearing.
How PCS Bail Bonds Can Help
If you have a disability and have been arrested or charged in Fort Worth or anywhere in Tarrant County and need to get out of jail, contact PCS Bail Bonds. Our skilled bail bondsmen are experienced with helping those with disabilities post bail and get out of jail fast, freeing you to defend your rights.
PCS Bail Bonds serves clients in Fort Worth, Texas, and other municipalities in Tarrant County. We process our clients’ requests quickly and efficiently. Our bond agents are always on call and we can be down to the jail in under 30 minutes.
Contact us now by phone at 817-335-1655, at our e-mail, visit in-person, or fill out our bail bond request form. You can be confident that you’re working with experts who are dedicated to helping you.