A bail bondsman essentially acts as a guarantor, vouching that the accused will show up to all court dates. The defendant pays a small percentage of the total bail amount to the bondsman in exchange for this service.
Experienced bail bond agents can also help navigate the complicated paperwork that is involved in this process. This is one of the most common reasons that people turn to them for help.
Be Released From Jail
Bail is set during arraignment after a criminal case, and judges consider the severity of the charges as well as the defendant’s history to determine bail. The purpose of bail is to ensure that the accused appears in court to answer for their crime and that they do not flee. Bail bonds companies take extra precautions to make sure that the defendant attends all of their court appearances. They usually have the defendant or their family member put up collateral and will call them before each court date to remind them. They will also check in with the defendant to make sure they are not hiding out or hanging out with bad influences that might encourage them to flee.
However, many people are stuck in jail because they cannot afford the bail amount. This is known as wealth-based detention and it is unfair that those with money can buy their freedom while those without money are left in jail until they are either convicted or they decide to accept a plea deal.
Can’t Afford the Bail
In theory, bail is meant to ensure that defendants show up for their court dates. That’s why the courts set bail at fairly high amounts, and they require a deposit or collateral to make sure that the person charged with the crime will not try to go on the run. what happens if someone jumps bail and you’re the cosigner.
However, if you don’t have the money to pay your bail, you may be able to secure a bond by paying a private company called a bondsman a nonrefundable fee of about 10 percent and putting up some collateral such as property or cash. The bondsman will then guarantee the full amount to the court, and if you appear in court as required by your bail agreement, they will get their money back.
The problem is that most families who need to post bail cannot afford to do so. This means they stay in jail, often for months while waiting for their day in court. This has created a two-tiered justice system and costs low-income families tens of millions of dollars every year.
Need to Appear in Court
When a judge sets bail, they try to consider how much the crime will affect the accused’s life. They also take into account the severity of the charges. It is expected that those who are accused of a crime will attend court hearings and trial dates.
Bail can be paid in cash or through a property bond. A property bond requires that a person put up a piece of their own property to secure the release. The bond company then charges a fee for this service. The court then gets the property back if the person shows up for every court date.
However, if the person skips their appearances, the court keeps the money. A bail bondsman then tries to track down the defendant. They will then hire a bounty hunter to find the defendant and bring them back to court. If the person is brought back to court, the bail bondsman will get their money back.
You Need to Get Help
Bail bonds are a way to get someone out of jail without having the cash upfront. A person will pay a percentage of the total bail amount to a bail bond company, and they will provide the rest. The defendant will be required to agree to certain conditions on release, which usually includes showing up for all court dates and not violating any laws or orders of protection.
When you or a loved one is arrested, it can be extremely stressful and confusing. A professional bail bondsman can help you navigate the legal system. They will explain how the process works, and they will do everything they can to get you or your loved one out of jail quickly and safely.
If you’re unable to afford the bail amount, consider asking your family and friends for help. Most people will be happy to do whatever they can to help their loved ones. You can also donate to a bail fund to help alleviate some of the pressure.