Bail Bonds 101 – Your Go-To Guide For Getting Out of Jail
Getting bailed out of jail is a complex process. This article explores how the bail system works and offers helpful tips to help you get bailed out of jail.
Individuals who meet certain criteria can be released on their recognizance without paying bail. This is typically available for people with minimal records and strong ties to the community.
What is Bail?
Bail is money or property you give to the court to guarantee that you will return for all your trial and hearing dates. If you don’t show up, the court keeps your bail deposit or collateral and issues a warrant for your arrest. If the judge believes you are a flight risk, they may set a higher amount for bail. You can choose to post bail in cash by yourself or with the help of a bail bond company.
For instance, a Dauphin County bail bonds company requires a co-signer, such as a family member or friend, and a fee (10-20% of the total bond). They will also check with you before your court date to ensure you haven’t left town.
How Do I Get Bailed Out?
Typically, when someone is arrested, they are taken to the police station for processing and booking. This means they have their photographs and fingerprints taken and a background check performed. Once this is done, bail is set, and they can get out of jail.
They can pay the bail in cash, or a friend or family member can contact a professional bonding company. The bondsman will ask questions about the person and why he or they were arrested and draw up a contract. The person bailed out must promise the court they will show up for all their court dates. If they don’t, the court will keep the money and may issue a warrant for their arrest. The bondsman usually tries to find the person and return them to court.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Bail Bond Company?
There are several benefits to using a bail bond company. First, they are licensed by the state and know how to work with the courts. This can save a lot of time and hassle.
Second, they can help a defendant find an attorney. This is important because an experienced attorney can make all the difference in a case. Bail bondsmen often work with attorneys daily and can recommend one who is familiar with your specific type of case.
Finally, they can also help you avoid missing your court date. This is important because you must complete your court date to avoid being charged with a new crime. A bail bond company will do everything possible to ensure you or your loved one shows up for court dates.
What Are The Risks Of Not Showing Up To Court?
When a person skips their court date, it is considered contempt of court and can have serious consequences. One of the most common consequences is a warrant being issued for their arrest. This means they can be arrested anytime and end up in jail until their case is resolved. Using a bail bond company allows loved ones to avoid this risk. It also saves them from using their credit card or going into debt, which can affect their credit score. Skipping a court appearance can result in being charged with a new crime, or the original charge could be upgraded from a misdemeanor to a felony.
What Are The Advantages Of Using A Bail Bond Company?
A bail bond company can post an individual’s bail, and the defendant only has to pay a small percentage of the total amount. This can save the defendant money as they don’t have to borrow from family or liquidate assets. Bail bond companies also offer payment plans for their clients.
Another advantage of using a bail bond is that the agents can keep the defendant’s financial matters private. This is important because the court may investigate how the defendant earned the money used to pay their bail. This can be invasive and cause unnecessary stress for loved ones. A bail bond can alleviate this stress and ensure that a defendant can build their defense while waiting for their trial date.