So, you had a rough night and ended up in jail. After regaining your bearings and figuring out what went wrong, you realize that you’re stuck.
Because you’re in jail, it means that your charges were greater than a typical speeding ticket, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get out.
The judge can set a bail amount for you which will allow you to get out of jail and return to court for your trial. This bail amount can vary based on the charge and if it is a repeat offense.
Cash Bonds
Unfortunately, upon being brought to jail, you lost access to your wallet, money and cell phone. And you definitely did not have enough cash on you to cover a cash bond.
The next step is to call some friends or family. If you have enough cash, you will be allowed to pay your bond. This money will be returned after all court appearances are met.
If you do not have enough money for your jail bond, a friend can co-sign the set amount and the money will be returned to them once you’ve met your legal obligations.
The Typical Jail Bond
For a more serious charge that carries a higher bail, you may need the help of a bail bondsmen. You friends or family can work with them to pay 15% of your set jail bond and get you out.
The 15% is non-refundable and the bondsmen are taking your word that you will attend all appearances for your charges. However, some bonding companies will set up payment plans.
Property Bonds
When your charges escalate, so does the set amount of bail. This means that your jail bond to get you out will be that much larger and difficult to pay unless you’re very wealthy. At this time, you may look at property bonds which can be signed over until your proceedings are over.
Property may also be required if the defendant has missed other court dates or could be considered a flight risk.
In this instance, your friends or family can use their car, home, land, or any other large value item as collateral to ensure you make your court dates. Keep in mind, that when property is used as collateral, it cannot be used by the bondsmen.
When dealing with property, whether it’s a home, auto, or other, there can be a lot of paperwork involved. This is to ensure that the value of whatever is used matches or exceeds the jail bond as well as that the person putting it up actually owns it.
If you find yourself behind bars, keep your cool. It is likely you’ll be able to get out until your court date. Don’t be intimidated by 15% of your bail as you may have to put as little as 2-3% down, paying the rest of it as mentioned.
Obviously, no one wants to go to jail. And if you do go to jail, you are going to want to get out as quickly as possible. Keep in mind the different types of bonds and what uses they have; let your friends and family help you, and remain on your best behavior.
If you have questions or need reliable bail bondsmen, contact us.