If an individual ends up going to jail before their hearing, it is possible for them to pay a bail bond in order to get out of jail until the trial.
But how do bail bonds actually work? The reality is much different compared to what most people familiarize themselves with via pop culture.
What is bail?
Bail is an agreement between the defendant and the court. The exchange involves the defendant giving money along with their word that they will return on the date of their hearing. Upon appearing as agreed, the bail money gets returned.
You get this money back even if convicted of the crime in question. However, missing even one court date results in the court keeping the bail money and issuing a warrant for your arrest.
How is bail determined?
Typically, bail gets set 48 hours after the initial arrest. A judge has a lot of leeway in deciding the amount, too. They may lower or even eliminate it for first-time offenders or those taking care of a family. They may increase it for those with multiple offenses or those who serve as flight risks.
What is a bail bond?
Surety Solutions discusses what a bail bond is and how it works. This essentially functions as a personal loan. Essentially, you pay a small upfront payment and the bail bondsman pays the rest. You also offer up collateral in the event that you do not attend your court dates.
These situations can get difficult to navigate, so having legal aid through the process can do a lot of good.
