How the Bail Bond Process Works After an Arrest

By Shane Rolf
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26 Oct, 2022
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The bail bond services industry has seen a rise in recent years. According to IBIS World, the size of the market grew 1.6% in 2021. Bail bond companies offer a service that helps alleviate some of the stress associated with court proceedings. Bail bonds can be used to secure the freedom of a defendant and help them avoid living behind bars as their case progresses. Read to learn more!

The Aftermath of an Arrest

When you or your loved one is arrested, you will get a hearing date from the court. In most situations, you would be held by the authorities while awaiting the commencement of your arraignment — or, the reading of your charges — and preliminary hearing. At a preliminary hearing, it is decided whether your case would be brought to trial. However, you can secure your freedom by paying the set bail amount. It's up to you or your family to pay the release amount set between the time the arrest happens and the court hearing proceedings start.

How Bail Bond Companies Can Help

If you can't raise the set amount, then a bail bond company can help. This company will pay the bail on your behalf, typically after you offer something of value as collateral. Bail bondsmen, also referred to as bail bond agents, will pay the bail in full if they can receive a percentage of the bail from the accused. The amount required upfront is typically about 10% of the full bail amount.

Once the bail bondsman posts bail, the accused person will be released and will need to show up in court as instructed. However, if the accused decides to skip their court hearing, they could face jail time of three months or more. A grace period is granted by the court as to how long a bail bondsman has to locate the accused. It's in the best interest of the accused to follow all rules set by the court and their bail bondsmen once bail has been posted.

When a person is arrested, they can be shaken For many folks, bail bond companies offer a necessary lifeline. You or a loved one can locate a reliable bail bondsman online. Be sure to read reviews so that you know you are working with an individual or a business that you feel you can trust.