Holiday weekends are meant for rest and celebration, but for some, they come with unexpected legal trouble. Arrests for DUI, domestic disputes, or other offenses often increase during major holidays in Arizona — including in cities like Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale. If someone is taken into custody, securing bail during a holiday weekend can be more challenging than on a regular weekday. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Bail Can Take Longer Over Holidays
While many bail bond agencies in Maricopa County offer 24/7 services, courts and jails may operate on reduced staff or altered schedules during holidays. This means:
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Initial court appearances may be delayed
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Jail processing can take longer
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Fewer judges or clerks may be available to handle paperwork
Even if you contact a bail bondsman right away, external factors like court closures or high jail volume can slow things down.
Common Charges Seen Over Holiday Weekends
Certain offenses tend to spike over long weekends. These include:
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Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
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Assault or domestic violence
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Disorderly conduct
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Public intoxication
Understanding the charges helps in knowing whether bail is likely and how much it may cost.
Steps You Can Take to Speed Up the Process
Contact a Bail Bond Agent Immediately
Many bail bond agencies are open 24 hours a day, even on holidays. Contacting an agent early allows them to:
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Start the paperwork
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Call ahead to the jail
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Provide guidance on what’s needed for release
Have Information Ready
To assist the agent or the jail, you’ll need:
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Full legal name of the person in custody
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Date of birth
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Arrest location
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Booking number (if known)
Being prepared helps the agent act quickly and reduce delays.
Arrange for Payment or a Co-Signer
Holiday hours mean less time to gather funds or paperwork. Be ready to:
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Pay the bail bond fee (usually 10% of total bail)
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Provide collateral, if required
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Co-sign paperwork to guarantee the person’s appearance in court
Know the Limitations of Holiday Bail Services
Even the most experienced bail agents can’t control every part of the process. You may still face:
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Delayed hearings due to court holiday schedules
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Longer release times because of limited jail staff
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Higher volume of arrests, leading to backup in processing
Patience is key — especially if the arrest happens late at night or during major holidays like New Year’s, Independence Day, or Thanksgiving.
Final Thoughts
Bail is still possible during holiday weekends, but it may take more time and planning. The best thing you can do is act fast, stay informed, and work with a professional bail bond agent familiar with Maricopa County jails and courts.
Whether you’re in Phoenix, Mesa, or Glendale, being prepared can make all the difference in reducing wait times and helping your loved one get home as soon as possible. Holidays can be stressful enough — knowing what to expect can give you some peace of mind if the unexpected happens.
