No one is perfect or immune to getting into some legal trouble. Jail is not a fun place, and it can certainly cause wear on your mental state. If you ever find yourself under arrest, a judge will then set bail, and if you’re able to post the amount set by the judge, you are free until your trial date. Bail can get very pricey, depending on the severity of your crime.
Sometimes you can’t afford to pay your bail, but don’t worry; there are a few options out there to help you. After all, no one wants to sit around in jail awaiting their trial. This will take a toll on just about anyone.
Today, the topic will go over some of your options when it comes to posting your bails, such as a cash bail bond or property bond. You will see that you’re not entirely hopeless, and there are a few options out there for you.
What is Bail?
Bail is money paid to a court in exchange for the release of the defendant. The court holds on to this money until all proceedings and trials surrounding the defendant are complete. The court hopes that by posting bail, a defendant will then show up to the court to recover his or her money.
A trial generally starts weeks or months after an arrest, and bail allows a person to continue their daily lives without sitting in jail through the entirety of the process. You usually have to wait under 48 hours to post bail after going through the booking process at the police station.
Types of Bail
Cash Bail Bonds
Cash bail bonds mean a defendant will pay the bail in full with either cash, a check, or in some cases, a credit card. This is usually the best option for smaller bail amounts, and you will receive your money back if you show up to court. If you don’t show up to court on the date set by the court, a warrant will be issued for your arrest.
Surety Bond
The surety bond process involves a relative or friend contacting a bail agent in a case where you can’t afford to pay your bail in full. A bail agent will then pay your bail amount in full and profits from charging a premium as well as collecting some collateral. This may include the title to your home, a car, a boat, or electronics.
Property Bond
A property bond is where a defendant can provide his or her property to act as a bond. The court will get a lien on this property in the amount of the bail. The court then has the option to foreclose on the home if the defendant doesn’t appear in court.
Summary
As you can see, you do have a few options when it comes to paying your bail, and if you’re ever in a situation where you are arrested, you should explore them. A cash bail bond is a popular option because you don’t have to put up any property for collateral or pay a percentage to an agent.
Paying an agent isn’t a bad thing either, because sometimes people can’t afford to pay in full, and your options become slim when you don’t wish to sit in jail for weeks or months. Be careful when it comes to hiring an agent. Make sure to ask questions and keep all receipts.