If you have never spent a day or night in county jail you may have all types of insane scenarios playing through your head. If your stay truly is 24 hours or less, then you will likely spend it in a holding cell, though some people may be ushered through into an actual cell. This will likely be the longest, most boring day of your life. Depending on why you are there, you may spend part of that time sleeping it off or wondering if your family and friends will come to bail you out. In all honesty, it will likely be an embarrassing time filled with questions, chaos, and a total loss of all power, but you will survive.

Making it Past the Holding Cell

You will likely be put into a holding cell immediately, but removed several times to be cleared by medical, asked many questions, be photographed, and more than likely, having to shower out and be searched. All of your belongings will likely be taken and inventoried and you will be given a wristband (at some locations) to identify you when needed. You will be in a cell with one or more individuals that are there for various reasons. It is best to not discuss why you were arrested as anything you say can be recorded or used against you. You may see people ill, see people try to harm themselves or worse, succeed. You may have to sleep on a metal bunk or a concrete slab depending on what county jail or detention center you are in at the time. You will have a toilet in your cell or holding cell and get all too comfortable using it in front of others. You may or may not have a blanket. You will get meals along with other inmates and simply serve your time quietly.

Passing the Time in County Jail

If you are placed in a pod with others who have been arrested, then you will likely spend the day watching television or playing cards. Keep things surface level as far as discussion and keep your head down. If you know your stay is short, just let it pass and move on with your life. Twenty-four hours is not long, but it will seem to stretch on for days in a county jail.

It is important not to share anything about your case or what you were told you were arrested for while in a detention center or even county jail. Though others can look it up when on the outside, if you were arrested for something considered out of line it could lead to violence. It is best to be cordial, but not share personal information. You will probably be given a set bail within 24 hours and a friend or family member should be ready to contact a bondsman or pay the amount as soon as possible. However, remember that even processing out is far from a streamlined process and even in small county jails may take a couple hours.

If you are looking for someone who is in country jail or a detention center then check here to learn about finding their location.