How Bail and Bail Bonds Work

A court appearance can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience. Court appearances are often held after an initial arrest, and unless you can produce a certain amount of money, you'll be held in jail until your court date. This can further add to the stress of the situation. According to the Prison Policy Initiative, about 83% of citizens held in jails are legally innocent and awaiting trial, but cannot make bail. Bail bonds can help you with this expense so that you can return home with your family. Let’s learn more about bail bonds and how bondsmen can help you during this difficult time.

What Is Bail?

Bail is the amount of money that a judge determines is necessary for you to pay in order to be released from jail to await your hearing. The court doesn’t keep this money, though. Once you appear for your court date, the amount of money is released back to whoever paid it. This money ensures that you will indeed appear for your court date.

If an individual doesn’t have that amount of money available to pay the bail, they have a couple of options. They can borrow it from someone or find someone agreeing to bail them out of jail. Using a bail bondsman is another option that many people opt for.

How Do Bail Bonds Work?

Bail bonds are a common way to get someone out of jail. A friend or family member can visit a bail bondsman on your behalf to obtain a bail bond. The bail bond company will provide the money required by the court to release you. You now have an obligation to the bail bondsman. Your obligation is to show up for your court appearance as agreed. Remember, if you don’t show up, the money isn’t returned to the bail bond company.

At that point, not only would the court find an issue with your actions, but you'd also owe money to the bond company. If your friend or family member puts up any collateral for the bail, the bond company has the legal right to claim that collateral. You would now find yourself in trouble with the court, the bond company, and the individual who put up collateral for you to the bond company. All of these details work together to ensure that an arrested individual shows up for their court appearance.

Knowing about how the justice system works benefits any citizen. It's important to know your rights! Should you be in need of a bail bonds service, you know you can trust Shane’s Bail Bonds. We bring over 25 years of service to the local community. Please contact us today should you need our services.