The clock doesn’t stop just because the court is closed.
Getting arrested is stressful no matter the day, but when it happens on a Friday night or over the weekend, the confusion and delays can feel endless.
At Big Mike Bail Bonds, we’ve seen what families go through when trying to navigate a loved one’s arrest after hours. Many jails offer limited information and leave families waiting for answers. But you don’t have to wait until Monday to take action.
Here’s what really happens after a weekend arrest and how we help you move forward fast.
The Courts Close, But the Clock Doesn’t Stop
While North Carolina magistrates work around the clock, most district courts shut down at the end of the business day on Friday. That means no judges are available to adjust bail amounts, hold first appearances, or make changes until Monday.
Here’s what that delay can mean:
- First appearances may be pushed to Monday or later
- Judges aren’t available to lower bond amounts or review charges
- A person could stay in jail for two full days longer just because of the weekend
Check North Carolina's court closings and weekend policies.
For families trying to understand what’s next, this delay can be incredibly frustrating. That’s where working with a 24/7 bail bondsman makes all the difference.
What Jails Don’t Tell You (But We Will)
Families often hear vague phrases like:
- “They’ll see a judge on Monday.”
- “We can’t give legal advice.”
- “There’s nothing you can do right now.”
What they don’t hear is this: You may still be able to post bail before court happens.
Many North Carolina counties use standard bond schedules—preset amounts tied to common misdemeanor and low-level felony charges. These schedules allow bail to be posted without waiting on a judge.
But here’s the catch. Jail staff may not share that information with you. A licensed bail bondsman like Big Mike can access this info immediately and take action when others can’t.
Find answers to the most common bail questions on our FAQ page.
Bail Schedules and Weekend Charges
If your loved one was arrested for a charge like DWI, disorderly conduct, or possession, there’s a good chance their bail has already been set—even if the court hasn’t opened yet.
These charges often fall under a fixed bail schedule, which allows release:
- Without a judge’s review
- Before a Monday hearing
- Once the bond is paid
With the right information, Big Mike Bail Bonds can step in immediately, confirm bond eligibility, and start the process before the jail opens Monday morning.
Learn more about bail schedules and weekend bookings from Justia’s legal guide.
Weekend Arrests Are Prime Time for Misinformation
Weekends are when panic and myths take over. Families often think they’re stuck, but that’s simply not true.
Common myths we hear:
- “You can’t post bail until Monday.”
- “A judge has to approve everything.”
- “You have to wait for the court to call.”
The truth is: Weekend bail is possible, but you need someone who knows how the system works and is willing to move fast.
How Big Mike Bail Bonds Works Around the Clock
We know arrests don’t wait for business hours. That’s why our team is on call 24/7—including weekends, holidays, and after midnight.
When you call Big Mike after a weekend arrest, we:
- Check on the charges and bond amount right away
- Confirm whether a preset bail has already been assigned
- Start paperwork immediately if eligible
- Walk you through the process, step by step
We don’t wait for jails to “get around to it.” We act fast to get your loved one released sooner.
Need weekend bail help? Call Big Mike anytime.
FAQs: Weekend Bail Realities
Can someone be bonded out without seeing a judge first?
Yes—many charges have preset bond amounts that allow release without a court hearing. It depends on the charge and local rules, but in most NC counties, it’s possible.
So bail can still be posted on weekends?
Absolutely. We’re available 24/7 and ready to act—even when the court is closed.
Why doesn’t the jail give more information?
Jail staff aren’t allowed to provide legal advice or estimate timelines. That’s why having a bondsman who knows the system is so important.
Don’t Wait Out the Weekend
When someone’s in jail, every hour matters. Unfortunately, weekend arrests come with more questions than answers—and most jails don’t do much to clear things up.
But you don’t have to sit and wonder what’s happening. Big Mike Bail Bonds helps families all across Raleigh, Durham, Smithfield, and beyond post bail fast—even when the courthouse is closed.
Arrests don’t wait for office hours, and neither do we. Call Big Mike Bail Bonds 24/7 for help navigating a weekend arrest.
August 14, 2025
