Getting arrested can be stressful if a friend or family member gets arrested. They are often placed on bail but must remain out of jail until their trial date. This requires them to check in with the bail bond company and avoid certain activities.
However, if they cannot pay the total amount of their bail, what is their next option? Bail bonds are a great way to keep them out of jail.
What is a Bail Bond?
Bail bonds Potter County, PA, is a payment or asset that a defendant provides to the court in exchange for their release from jail before their trial. The judge establishes the amount of bail based on the accused’s criminal record. The purpose of bail is to ensure that the accused will attend their trial.
If the bail amount is too high for the defendant to pay in cash, they may hire a bail bond agent. The bondsman typically charges a non-refundable fee of 10% or less of the total bail amount for their services.
There are several types of bonds, such as a surety bond (typically secured by an insurance company), property bond (where the courts place a lien on real property), and immigration bonds (used for non-citizens). Some accused people can be released on their recognizance without paying any bail. These are typically for minor misdemeanors. The most common type of bond is the citation release bond.
How Does a Bail Bond Work?
A judge sets an amount of bail money for the accused to pay to get released from police custody. This is the court’s way of ensuring the accused will appear for trial.
If a person wants to spend less than their bail, they can use a bond company to help them. They pay a fee to the bail bondsman for this service and usually must provide valuable collateral to secure the bond.
These assets can be anything from property to cars to even the deeds to their home. The bond agent keeps this collateral until the case ends and the accused has complied with all the required court appearances.
The bonding company and the person who signed the bail bond (the Indemnitor) are jointly responsible for ensuring the accused appears in court until their case ends. This includes following all court requirements like a curfew and any drug, alcohol, or mental health tests that may be required.
How Can I Get a Bail Bond?
A bail bondsman will take a non-refundable fee of 10% or less of the total bond amount. They will then post the entire bond amount with the court to ensure the accused shows up for all their scheduled court appearances.
This process is available to anyone regardless of financial status or credit history. A bondsman may require a signed contract from the person posting the bond confirming that they fully understand that they are responsible for the defendant showing up for all their scheduled court proceedings. This agreement also discusses what they put on the line (typically some form of collateral).
There are several types of bonds available. Release on Own Recognizance (ROR): A judge sets bail, and the defendant is released from jail on the promise that they will appear for all their court appearances. Property Bond: A judge allows a bail bond agent to put up real property, such as a house or car, instead of paying the bond amount.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Bail Bond?
Using a bail bond allows you or your loved one to stay out of jail while they await their court date. This can save them from an extended stay in jail, which may affect their employment or other legal matters.
Additionally, staying out of jail can allow them to seek outside support from family or friends, attend AA meetings, and make other lifestyle improvements to help their case. This can also give judges a more favorable view of their situation as they await their hearing.
When a judge sets bail, they require an upfront payment that can be difficult for many to afford. A bail bondsman can work with you to create a payment arrangement that does not force you to empty your bank account or take money away from family needs. Bail companies also know the complicated bail administrative paperwork that must be filed with the courts and can help you navigate this process.