Everything You Need to Know About Bail Bonds
Getting arrested can be a scary experience, especially if you have never dealt with the legal system before. One of the most confusing aspects of being arrested is the bail process. Bail is a sum of money that an arrestee pays to the court in exchange for their release from jail before the trial. However, not everyone has enough money to pay for bail, which is where bail bonds come in.
In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about bail bonds.
What are bail bonds?
A bail bond functions as a legally binding agreement that links the person in custody, a bail bond agent, and the court. This agreement serves to ensure the fulfillment of legal obligations and responsibilities. Acting on behalf of the arrestee, the bail bond agent pledges to cover the bail amount in return for a fee, typically calculated as a percentage of the total bail. This arrangement ensures the release of the arrested person while upholding the integrity of the legal process. The role of the bail bond agent is to act as a guarantor, ensuring the presence of the arrested individual on their court date. If the arrested person fails to appear in court, the bail bond agent will have to pay the full bail amount.
How much does a bail bond cost?
The price of a bail bond fluctuates based on the bail amount and the policies of the bail bond company. Usually, bail bond agents necessitate a non-refundable fee that matches the entire bail amount. In certain instances, the bail bond company may stipulate the need for collateral, which could include valuable assets like a vehicle or property, as a means to ensure the bond's security.
What happens if the arrested person does not show up for court?
If the arrested person fails to appear in court, the bail bond agent has a few options. They can hire a bounty hunter to track down the person and bring them back to court. Alternatively, the bail bond agent can pay the full bail amount to the court and collect the collateral used to secure the bond. In some cases, the bail bond company may also sue the arrestee for the amount of the bail bond.
How long does the bail process take?
The length of the bail process can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. In some cases, an arrested person may be able to post bail immediately after being booked into jail. However, if the bail amount is very high or if the case involves serious charges, it may take longer to arrange for a bail bond. It is important to note that the court can deny bail in some cases, such as if the person is considered a flight risk or if they pose a danger to the public.
To learn more about bail bonds, reach out to a local agency.
Share
