Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DWI Arrest

It’s a Friday evening, and you have just left a party after hours of laughter and one too many drinks. As you drive home with happy memories of the gathering, you see lights flashing in your rearview mirror, and that’s when you notice how you have messed up big time. You get pulled over by law enforcement officers for a suspected DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), and you are arrested. Well, this is no imaginary scenario because DWI can happen to anyone, and it’s a moment that can change your life forever. Wake County, NC DWI bail bonds can help you get out of jail before your trial but until then, you need to stay on the right lane (speaking metaphorically)!

The consequences of a DWI conviction can be severe, including license suspension, fines, and even imprisonment. If you want to avoid any of these consequences, and you don’t want to get into any more trouble than you are already in, here are some common mistakes you need to avoid after a DWI arrest.

Failing to Understand the Legal Implications

Each state has its own set of laws and penalties for DWI offenses, and these can vary widely. Ignorance of the law is not a valid defense, so it is crucial to consult with an experienced DWI attorney who can explain the specific consequences you may face based on your circumstances.

Talking to the Police Without Legal Counsel

After a DWI arrest, you have the right to remain silent and consult an attorney. It’s essential to exercise this right and avoid making statements that could be used against you in court. Anything you say can and will be used against you, so it’s best to wait until you have legal counsel present before providing any information to the police.

Neglecting to Request a DMV Hearing

In many states, DWI arrests trigger a separate administrative process through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Failing to request a DMV hearing within the specified time frame can result in an automatic driver’s license suspension. Understand and adhere to the deadlines associated with this administrative procedure to protect your driving privileges.

Neglecting the Consequences of a Conviction

Many people underestimate the long-term consequences of a DWI conviction. Beyond fines and potential jail time, a DWI conviction can result in increased insurance premiums, limited job opportunities, and difficulties obtaining loans or housing, which is why it’s imperative to get out of jail as soon as you can with bail bonds.

The Bottom Line

Facing a DWI arrest can be a daunting and life-altering experience. The key is not panicking when things are already going south after your DWI disaster. Whether you have been arrested for a DUI/DWI case, or the charges have escalated as you were charged with possession of drugs, try to remain calm, call your emergency contact or someone who can help, and reach out to a DWI bail bonds company as soon as possible to help you secure your release.

Searching for a Wake County, NC, DWI Bail bonds service? Contact the licensed bail bond agents at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today!

Factors That Influence Bail Amounts for Drug Possession in NC

If you think bail amounts are randomly set, you are mistaken because, in reality, bail is calculated based on several factors. The state, jurisdiction, and crime significantly impact the bail amount, and although a Wake County, NC drug possession bail bonds company can help you bail out of jail before your trial, here’s what determines your bail amount. Delve in to know more.

Type and Quantity of Drugs

Generally, offenses involving controlled substances are categorized into different drug schedules, with Schedule I drugs being the most severe and Schedule VI the least. A person charged with possession of a larger quantity of a higher-schedule drug is likely to face a higher bail amount, and judges often consider the potential danger associated with these substances when setting bail.

Prior Criminal Record

If an individual has a history of drug-related offenses or other criminal convictions, they may be a higher flight risk or a greater danger to the community. In such cases, the bail amount is likely to be higher to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court and public safety.

Flight Risk

One of the primary objectives of bail is to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court. If a defendant is a flight risk—meaning they are likely to flee the jurisdiction to avoid prosecution—the bail amount may be set significantly higher.

Community Safety Concerns

The safety of the community is a paramount consideration in setting bail amounts for drug possession cases. If a judge believes that the defendant poses a threat to public safety due to the nature of the drug possession, charges, or other factors, they may opt for a higher bail amount to mitigate potential risks.

Ties to the Community

Defendants with strong ties to the community are generally perceived as a lower flight risk. Factors such as employment, family, and residence stability can play a significant role in this determination. If a defendant can demonstrate strong community ties, the bail amount may be set lower to allow them to remain free pending trial.

Financial Means

A defendant’s financial situation is also considered when determining bail. If a defendant has the financial means to pay a substantial bail amount, it may be set higher. Conversely, if a defendant lacks the financial resources to post a high bail, the court may set a lower bail amount or explore alternatives like pre-trial release programs.

Conclusion

The need for bail bonds in the criminal justice system is indispensable. Thankfully, you can get out of jail after your arrest and live your life normally before your trial with Wake County, NC drug possession bail bonds service. Always remember that bail isn’t a form of punishment, but a means to ensure a defendant’s appearance in court. If you are eligible for bail, don’t waste any time thinking if you can pay for securing the bail because professional Wake County NC, drug possession bonds have got you covered. Are you looking for a bail bond agency to help you get out of jail after your arrest in a drug possession case in NC?

Drop us a line at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today, and we will see how we can help!

Types of Felonies for Which You Can be Arrested in Wake County

When it comes to the legal landscape, the choices you make can have life-altering implications. Just like in many other jurisdictions across the United States, felonies are considered serious criminal offenses in Wake County, North Carolina. Whether we are talking about imprisonment, fines, or criminal record, felonies can have severe consequences. If you are arrested, a Wake County, NC felony bail bonds company can help you get out of jail, but if you want to avoid criminal liability in the first place and protect your rights, here’s a list of different felonies in Wake County. Read on to find out why you can be charged with different felonies and what are the legal consequences associated with each.

Class A Felonies

Class A felonies are the most serious crimes in North Carolina, and they carry the harshest penalties. Some examples of Class A felonies in Wake County include:

  • First-degree murder: This crime involves the unlawful killing of another person with premeditation and deliberation. Conviction can result in life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or even the death penalty.
  • Certain sexual offenses: Felonious sexual assault, rape, and sexual acts with minors under the age of 13 fall into this category. Convictions can lead to long prison sentences and mandatory registration as a sex offender.

Class B1 Felonies

Class B1 felonies are also considered serious offenses, and they come with significant penalties. Examples of Class B1 felonies in Wake County include:

  • Attempted murder: While not as severe as first-degree murder, attempted murder involves a deliberate attempt to kill another person. Convictions can lead to lengthy prison sentences.
  • Kidnapping: Kidnapping involves the unlawful abduction or restraint of another person. Penalties can range from several years to life in prison, depending on the specifics of the case.

Class B2 Felonies

Class B2 felonies in Wake County are slightly less severe than Class B1 felonies but still carry substantial consequences. Examples include:

  • Voluntary manslaughter: This involves intentionally causing the death of another person but without premeditation. Penalties can include significant prison time.
  • Robbery with a dangerous weapon: Committing robbery while armed with a dangerous weapon can result in Class B2 felony charges. Conviction can lead to substantial prison sentences.

Class C Felonies

Class C felonies are less severe than Class B felonies but are still considered significant offenses. Examples include:

  • Drug trafficking: Trafficking in controlled substances like cocaine, heroin, or methamphetamine is a Class C felony. Penalties vary depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
  • Aggravated assault: An assault that causes serious bodily injury or is committed with a deadly weapon can be classified as a Class C felony. Convictions may result in prison time and substantial fines.

Conclusion

Whether you are a resident or visitor, everyone needs to have a basic knowledge of the types of felonies and their associated penalties in Wake County. You can always use your knowledge of the different penalties in Wake County to stay out of trouble. However, if you are still charged with a felony, feel free to reach out to professional agents for Wake County, NC, felony bail bonds. In legal trouble for a felony and looking for Wake County, NC, bail bonds service? Contact the bail bond agents at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today!

Checking Eligibility for Immigration Bond- Are You Eligible?

North Carolina is a melting pot of diverse populations hailing from different countries and Greensboro is no exception. Although the place offers a plethora of opportunities for immigrants who want to build a life for themselves, the real question is does everyone follow the immigration procedure properly? Those who do can make a life for themselves as well as their family in the States and change their status to permanent lawful residents, whereas others who deviate from the immigration laws and land in the ICE facility have to opt for bail bonds in Greensboro, NC.

If you belong to the latter group for now and wondering what factors determine your eligibility for an immigration bond, read on to find out.

Legal Status

If an individual is in the United States without proper authorization or has overstayed their visa, they are in an unlawful status. In such cases, their eligibility for an immigration bond might be at risk. However, not all individuals in unlawful status are automatically ineligible. Certain circumstances, such as humanitarian reasons or asylum claims, may be considered during the bond determination.

Criminal History

Those with a criminal record, particularly those convicted of serious offenses, may face challenges in getting an immigration bond. Immigration authorities prioritize public safety and may view individuals with criminal backgrounds as potential risks for flight or posing a danger to society. Nevertheless, each case is assessed individually, and certain mitigating factors may play a role in getting a bail bond.

Flight Risk

One of the primary concerns of immigration authorities when considering a bond request is whether the individual is a flight risk. If someone is a flight risk, they are more likely to flee the country to avoid immigration proceedings. Factors such as family ties in the country, stable employment, and community connections can be important in proving ties that mitigate this risk. Demonstrating a strong connection to the community and compelling reasons to stay in the United States can increase the chances of being eligible for an immigration bond.

History of Compliance

Immigration officials also consider an individual’s history of compliance with immigration laws. If the arrested individual has a record of previous immigration violations or fails to appear at immigration hearings, their chances of getting bail might be in jeopardy. Conversely, individuals who have a clean compliance history are more likely to be considered for bond eligibility, as they have demonstrated their willingness to abide by immigration regulations.

Conclusion

Immigration to a new country can be overwhelming and challenging, and if you find yourself in the ICE facility after making a tiny mistake, bail bonds can come to your rescue. Searching for a licensed bail bondsman in Greensboro, NC, or professional agents for bail bonds in Guilford County after finding your loved one is eligible to get bail? Want your loved ones to spend more time with you and less time in the ICE facility when they are at risk of deportation? Contact the professionals at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds and speed up the process.

What Happens After an Immigration Bond is Paid?

There’s no denying that navigating the immigration system can be a challenging and intricate ordeal. If you make a mistake, like staying on an expired visa or crossing borders without proper paperwork, you might be detained by the immigration authorities. And if you are detained by ICE, immigration bail bonds in Gastonia, NC, can offer a lifeline to get out of detention and spend maximum time with your friends and family while preparing properly for your trial.

If you think your journey ends with paying the bail bond, you are mistaken because there’s more to it. Wondering what? Well, read on to explore what happens after an immigration bond is paid.

Release from Detention

For one, after paying the immigration bond, the detained immigrant is released from ICE custody. This release can take a few hours or days, depending on the specific circumstances and the workload of the detention facility. After you free up someone from the ICE facilities with a Gaston County bail bondsman, the defendant gets a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court, which outlines the date, time, and location of their court hearing.

Attendance at the Immigration Court

After being released, the individual has to appear at the immigration court on the date specified in the NTA. At this hearing, an immigration judge will review the case and determine the defendant’s eligibility for relief, potential deportation, or the right to remain in the country. Attending the court and adhering to the rules specified in the bail agreement is crucial because failure to do so can result in the forfeiture of the bond money and lead to a deportation order.

Bond Refunds

After the conclusion of the immigration case, the bond amount is refunded to the individual or the person who posted the bail on their behalf. However, the refund is not automatic. It is subject to compliance with all court orders, including attending all hearings and complying with the judge’s decisions. Note that there’s a specific procedure to get a bond refund from ICE, so follow that to get the refund on time.

Possibility of Voluntary Departure

Sometimes, an individual may also choose voluntary departure rather than facing a removal order. Voluntary departure allows the person to leave the country at their own expense within a specified period, typically 60 to 120 days. By departing voluntarily, the individual may avoid legal consequences that could affect their ability to return to the United States in the future.

Adjustment of Status

For some immigrants, paying an immigration bond may be a stepping stone toward seeking lawful permanent resident status or applying for asylum. If eligible, the individual can apply to adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

Conclusion

This was everything you need to know after your bail bond was submitted. Need more information on bail bonds in Gastonia, NC, or want to get help from licensed bail bond agents? Reach out to the professionals at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds now!

Difference between Delivery and Departure Immigration Bonds in Texas

In the complex realm of immigration law in Texas, different legal procedures and processes are set in motion to ensure the smooth entry and exit of individuals in and out of a country. One such significant aspect of immigration law is an immigration bond, serving as a financial guarantee for accused immigrants until their immigration bond hearing. If you think all immigration bonds in Texas are the same, let us tell you, they are not. Immigration bonds are further categorized into delivery and departure bonds. Wondering what these are and what’s best for you? Read on to discover more!

Delivery Immigration Bond:

As a defendant, if you choose a delivery immigration bond, this means you want to fight the charges brought forth against you. Although the process can be lengthy, you can have your case heard by an immigration judge who can determine if you are permitted to remain in the country or if you will be removed involuntarily.

With a delivery immigration bond, immigrants must remain cooperative with the ICE agency until their case is resolved. They must attend all appointments and court proceedings until their case concludes, and if they fail to appear at the ICE facility or court, they run the risk of being arrested once again or forfeit the money paid to secure the immigration bond.

Departure Immigration Bond:

Also known as a voluntary departure bond, a departure immigration bond allows an individual to voluntarily leave the country within a specified timeframe at their own expense after they pay their bail bond. The bond amount is completely refundable if the individual departs as directed, otherwise, the immigrant has to forfeit the amount.

Typically, a departure bond starts at a minimum of $500, but it can reach several thousand dollars as well. Essentially, with this type of bond, the immigrant gives up their opportunity to have their case heard before a judge, which means there is no possibility that they will be permitted to remain in the United States. A departure bond is a good option for those who fear deportation is indispensable. They can instead leave the country without waiting for a court-ordered removal, and this doesn’t go on their permanent record.

If the immigrant leaves voluntarily, they might also get to return after a significant period, and in addition, ICE also grants immigrants a departure bond period of 30-90 days before their departure. So, the immigrant can use this time to get their affairs in order in the United States and their home country to make the relocation simpler. Remember that, if you opt for a delivery bond and are involuntarily removed, you might not have this opportunity.

Conclusion

If you understand the difference between departure and delivery bonds and are looking for immigration bonds in Houston, Texas, you can always reach out to Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds to help you out. The professionals have years of experience in the industry, and the best part is you can seek professional guidance for handling your immigration bond matters without any hiccups.

101 On Getting an ICE Bond Refund in Arizona

Irrespective of whether you are familiar with the immigration court system of the United States or not, discovering that a loved one is detained is frightening. Many people fear that immigrants will be mistreated or immediately deported while in the custody of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Agency. Thousands of immigrants annually get arrested by the ICE. While many of these immigrants have established lives in the United States, they might not have been able to renew or extend their visas. Without a valid visa, immigrants might be at risk of being arrested and detained unexpectedly. To avoid the emotional struggles that come with being detained, people pay immigration bail bonds as soon as they can.

However, are you paying for the bond in full soon enough to free your loved ones from the ICE facility? Can you get a refund for the ICE Bond in Arizona? Delve in to find out!

Does ICE Offer Immigration Bond Refunds?

It does. However, the most significant and decisive factor in whether someone is eligible for a refund or not is their mode of payment. Individuals who seek help from licensed bail bond agents for immigration bonds in Arizona to buy a surety bond are not eligible for a refund because they are required to pay a small percentage of the total bond instead of paying for the bond in full. However, if you are paying for the bond on your own, you might get a refund.

There are two drawbacks to handling immigration bail on your own. For one, if you don’t have that kind of money on you, which is essential to free up someone from ICE custody, you have to wait, and so do they. In addition, when you handle immigration bail on your own just to get the entire refund, navigating through the intricacies can be challenging. Whereas, with a professional bail bond agent, the process becomes effortless.

How to get ICE Bond Refund?

If you want to get immigration bond refunds through ICE, numerous steps must transpire. For starters, your case’s outcome should be completely resolved within the court system. Although the case’s outcome doesn’t affect refund eligibility, the accused immigrant must abide by all the terms and conditions of the bond.

When all the requirements are met, and the case is over, bond sponsors wait for a Notice of Bond Cancellation form in their mail. ICE sends this to the address on the bond sponsor’s file, and once the form is secured, sponsors have to mail it with their original bail bond receipt to the Debt Management Center. Once the paperwork gets processed from there, it can take several weeks or months to secure an immigration bond refund, unlike when you go through professional bail bond agents.

Conclusion

The ICE facilities can be overwhelming for an individual. Getting detained and isolated from everyone is frustrating, and if you want to save your loved ones from this frustration, immigration bail bonds in Arizona can be an excellent option. Whether you need financial aid to post the bail, or you want more information about bail bonds, the experts at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds can always help!

Ways to Find Out if Your Loved One is Arrested by ICE

Getting arrested is a traumatic experience for everyone, but for immigrants, the situations are even more critical because one legal misdemeanor or a simple violation of immigration laws can land them in ICE custody or get them deported. Did you know around 63.1% of ICE Immigrant detainees have no criminal record?

ICE
Source: https://trac.syr.edu/immigration/quickfacts/

If you have someone in your family or friend circle missing for days and the thought of how they might be in ICE custody bothering you, here’s how you can find out if someone has been arrested by the ICE. Understand that immigration bail bonds in California can help but you need to find what the detained person has been charged for.

Contact Local Authorities:

Your first course of action should be to contact local law enforcement agencies, such as the police department or county jail. Provide them with the information you have gathered and inquire if your loved one is in their custody. Remain calm and polite during these conversations to maintain a cooperative relationship with the authorities. Remember that local law enforcement may not have direct access to information on ICE detentions, but they can provide valuable guidance or direct you to the appropriate channels.

Utilize the ICE Online Detainee Locator:

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) provides an online detainee locator tool, which can help you search for individuals in their custody. Visit the official ICE website and access their detainee locator page. Enter the necessary information, including the person’s full name, date of birth, and country of birth, to initiate the search. If your loved one is in ICE custody, this tool will provide you with their current location and contact information after which you can reach out to an immigration bondsman.

What to do after you find the detained person?

If the accused immigrant is still in ICE facilities, the first step is to get an immigration bond. According to the ICE form I-352, there are four types of immigration bonds:

  • Public safety bond
  • Delivery Bond
  • Supervision bond, and
  • Voluntary departure bond

It’s vital to remember that getting bail does not mean the charges are withdrawn. When you post bail with bail bonds, you can release someone from ICE custody while the case is being processed. While on bail, the defendant has to give proper notice to immigration officials and appear for the scheduled court dates.

Conclusion

Sometimes immigrants with improper paperwork or expired visas live within the States at the risk of being arrested by the ICE at any given moment. Your loved ones might be arrested in a workplace raid, as a part of a routine traffic stop, or during other scenarios. As ICE can detain immigrants in out-of-state facilities or local contracted prisons, it might often be tough to locate someone arrested without warning.

If you find where the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency is keeping your friend or family member, you must post their bail as soon as possible. If the bail amount seems unreasonably higher for you or you can’t pay the bail amount, ensure to go for US immigration bonds. You can hire licensed immigration bail bond agents at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds to speed up the bail process.

Immigration Bond Hearings: Unveiling the Process

Imagine a bustling courtroom filled with individuals from different walks of life. Their fate hangs in the balance as they await the decision that could potentially determine their future. Yes, that’s what an immigration bond hearing looks like. Yes, you can deliver an in-person request or send a written request to get an immigration bond hearing faster, but before that, you need to understand what a typical hearing scene looks like.

Prisons across the states detain thousands of people daily and if you are one of them and if you are one of them who requires the aid of a professional bail bondsman in Raleigh, NC, here’s a guide delving into the intricacies of the bond hearing procedure. Delve in to understand the steps involved and the factors considered by the judge.

Understanding the Purpose of an Immigration Bail Hearing:

An immigration bail hearing is an opportunity for individuals in ICE detention to seek release while their case is pending. The purpose is to determine whether the detainee can be released before their trial by evaluating if they are a flight risk or a threat to the community. Before the immigration bond hearing, the accused immigration is taken to their local ICE facility or any nearby contracted prison. If Immigration Customs Enforcement charges the immigrant with unlawful entry to the States, an expired Visa, or any similar charge, they will process it into the system. After the charges are processed, the immigrant can request a hearing and the hearing will take place in front of an immigration judge.

The Proceedings in an Immigration Bond Hearing:

  • Notice of Hearing: The first step is the issuance of a Notice to Appear (NTA) by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This document notifies the detainee of the charges against them and sets a date for the bond hearing.
  • Presentation of Evidence: Evidence is presented by the defendant’s attorney as well as the government attorney during the trial. To make the case for bail stronger, the detainee’s attorney highlights the defendant’s ties to the community, employment history, family relationships, and other factors.
  • Testimony and Cross-Examination: The detainee can provide their own testimony, explaining their reasons for seeking release and addressing any concerns raised by the government’s attorney. The judge and the government’s attorney have the right to cross-examine the detainee.
  • Consideration of Factors: The judge evaluates various factors to determine whether to grant a bond. These factors may include the detainee’s criminal history, flight risk, ties to the community, employment status, family relationships, and potential danger to the community. The judge’s decision is based on an individualized assessment, taking into account the specific circumstances of each case.

Conclusion

Need help with bail bonds? Want to post bail for your loved one stuck in the ICE facility, but you don’t have the necessary amount in your bank? Contact a licensed bail bondsman at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds and reunite with your loved ones while they still await their trial!

9 Bail Bond Jargons You Need to Know About

At times when you find yourself in a tight spot, facing legal trouble and the possibility of incarceration, Raleigh bail bonds can be a glimmer of hope. However, as you delve deeper into the bail bonding process, you might encounter a myriad of confusing terminologies that leave you scratching your head. Getting arrested and thrown in jail is probably one of the most traumatic experiences in anyone’s life and at such a low point in life if you want a sneak peek into the common bail bond jargon, we have compiled a guide for you!

1. Bail

If we have to start with the basics, bail can be defined as the amount or sum of money set by the court as an incentive. The bail amount assures that a defendant will appear for all the hearings once they are released from custody while their case is pending. Bail also serves as an assurance that the defendant won’t be a threat to the community in addition to being a flight risk while they are on bail.

2. Bail Bond

Also known as surety bonds, bail bonds are a financial guarantee offered by professional bail bond agencies to secure the release of a defendant. The bond covers the entire amount of the bail set by the court and if the defendant or their family can’t pay the bail determined by the judges they can search for bail bondsmen near me.

3. Premium

The premium is the fee charged by the bail bondsman for their services. It is typically a percentage of the total bail amount, usually around 15% and the fee is non-refundable because it serves as the bondsman’s compensation for taking on the risk.

4. Collateral

Collateral refers to assets or property that a defendant or their family pledges to the bail bondsman as security for the bond. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bondsman can seize the collateral to cover the outstanding amount.

5. Indemnitor

An indemnitor, also known as a cosigner or guarantor, is an individual who assumes financial responsibility for the defendant’s bail bond. They sign a contract with the bail bondsman, agreeing to pay the full bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court.

6. Bail Forfeiture

Bail forfeiture occurs when a defendant fails to appear in court as required. In such cases, the court can order the bail bond forfeited, meaning the full amount becomes due. The bondsman can then pursue the defendant and the indemnitor for repayment.

7. Exoneration

Exoneration occurs when the court releases the defendant from the obligation to pay the bail bond. This typically happens when the case is resolved or the defendant fulfills all court requirements.

8. Bail Jumping

Bail jumping refers to the act of intentionally failing to appear in court after being released on bail. It is a serious offense and can result in additional charges, the revocation of bail, and the forfeiture of the bond.

9. Remand

Remand refers to the act of returning a defendant to custody after bail has been revoked. This can happen if the defendant violates bail conditions, fails to appear in court, or poses a threat to the community.

Still, searching for bail bonds near meor wondering about the perks of using bail bond services? Drop a line to the professionals at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds now!