Author: Amistad Bail Bonds

When an individual is arrested and faces criminal charges, the court may require the defendant to pay a bail bond in order to be released from jail until their trial. Bail bonds are a type of financial guarantee that ensures the defendant will return for their court dates. There are several different types of bail bonds, including bail bonds, surety bonds, and personal bonds. Understanding the differences between these bonds is essential for anyone who may need to post bail for themselves or someone else. Want to know what the different types of bail bonds are and how they work? Dive in to find out!

But, first, what is a Bail Bond?

A bail bond is a contract between the defendant, the bail bondsman, and the court. The defendant or a co-signer pays the bail bondsman a non-refundable fee, typically 15% of the total bail amount. The bail bondsman then posts the full bail amount with the court and guarantees that the defendant will appear in court. If the defendant fails to appear, the bail bond company can take any sort of legal action against the defendant. So, to begin with, let’s read more about the types of bail bonds.

1. Unsecured

Unsecured bail bonds are not tied to any asset and their trustworthiness is completely dependent on the reputation and credit standing of the issuing bail bond agency or the company. It is also known as the signature bond and an unsecured bond is applicable after a bail hearing when the defendant signs an agreement instead of paying the bail. In the agreement they state to pay the bail if they fail to appear on the court on the designated date.

2. Secured

Secured bail bonds, on the other hand, require the defendant to put up collateral to secure the bond. This can be in the form of cash, or property such as a house. The amount of collateral required is usually equal to the amount of bail. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the court can seize the collateral to cover the cost of bail. Note that secure bonds can be paid with cash, a property as a collateral or a surety bond (bail bonds).

3. Personal Recognizance

A personal bond, also known as a signature bond, is a type of bond where the defendant is released from jail without posting any money or collateral. Instead, the defendant signs a contract promising to appear in court and is released on their recognizance. Personal bonds are typically only granted to defendants who are not considered a flight risk and who are charged with relatively minor offenses. In some cases, a judge may require the defendant to provide a co-signer for a personal bond, who would be responsible for ensuring the defendant appears in court.

Surety bonds are the simplest form of guarantee bonds that involves a third-party agreement. The three parties in the surety agreement involve:

• The principal or the court
• Surety or the bail bond company
• Obligee or the defendant

In the surety bond the bail bond company guarantees that the defendant will abide by the court’s agreement. If the defendant fails to fulfil their obligation, the surety company is responsible for paying the full amount of the bond to the courts.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between bail bonds, surety bonds, and personal bonds is essential for anyone who may need to post bail for themselves or someone else. Bail bonds are typically used in legal cases to guarantee that the defendant will appear in court and whether you are a co-signer or the defendant, knowing more about the bail bonds can always be helpful. Instead of diving through the bail bond intricacies all on your own, you can always work with a professional bail bond company in NC.

When facing charges, it is important to consult with a bail bondsman from a renowned bail bond company in NC to get out of jail as soon as possible without any atrocious repercussions.

Crime rates are skyrocketing all across the globe. While some cities are peaceful as they should be, others are witnessing a significant hike in crimes. Virginia is the second kind. Undoubtedly, the place is still safe for people to live in, but here the credit goes to the criminal justice system. Virginia is one of the 50 states that make up the United States of America. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty.

However, like any other state, Virginia has its share of legal issues. Every day many people are arrested for committing crimes and breaking laws, and when caught in the act, they get arrested. Whether you are caught red-handed, or someone complained against you, and you might land in jail for a warrant, a professional Richmond, VA bail bondsman can help you to get out of jail till your court trial.

Licensed bail bonding agents work with many people to release them on bail. In case you are wondering why individuals land in jail, here are the five most common reasons why people in Virginia end up behind the bars and in need of bail.

1. Drug Offenses

Drug offenses are one of the most common reasons for arrest in Virginia. According to the Virginia State Police, there were 28,308 drug-related arrests in 2019, which represents a 2.2% increase from the previous year. Ranging from illegal drug usage and substance abuse to smuggling, drug offenses are common reasons for arrest warrants.

2. Driving Issues

As per the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were 22,848 DUI convictions in Virginia in 2019. Although the numbers have decreased, driving issues are still one of the most common reasons for arrest in DUI. Anyone can get arrested if they are driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, reckless driving, and driving with a suspended license.

3. Assault

Assault is a serious crime that can result in arrest in Virginia. According to the Virginia State Police, there were 14,437 arrests for assault in 2019. The crime includes both simple assault and aggravated assault. Simple assault is an attempt to cause harm to another person, while aggravated assault involves a deadly weapon.

4. Fraud

Fraud is a white-collar crime that can result in arrest in Virginia. This includes crimes such as identity theft, credit card fraud, and embezzlement. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there were 2,019 reported cases of fraud in Virginia in 2019. These cases resulted in losses of over $118 million.

5. Larceny

Larceny is the act of taking someone else’s property without their permission. Often larceny is also known as theft. Under larceny, the crime can be anything ranging from a common misdemeanor like shoplifting to something severe like purse snatching or pickpocketing.

Need help with bail?

Well, if you are arrested for any of these crimes or some other reason in Virginia, you can always get in touch with licensed bail bonding agents for bail bonds in Richmond, VA. They can help you with the process and help you with the bail amount in case you cannot fund the bail.

Every year, thousands of global citizens move to the States in the hope of better opportunities in career, healthcare, or just for traveling. Where many people enter the USA borders legally, there are also some legal immigrants. Those who illegally enter the USA can be held in custody by the ICE authorities for trespassing. However, luckily you can get out of the ICE detention center with immigration bail bonds.

Although being released on immigration bail is a massive relief for anyone who has been detained by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, you must understand what to do after being released on US immigration bonds.

Contact Your Immigration Attorney

The first and most important thing to do after being released on immigration bail is to contact your immigration attorney. Your attorney can help you navigate the legal process, explain your rights and obligations, and help you avoid any potential legal pitfalls. Your attorney can also help you understand the conditions of your release, including any travel restrictions or check-ins with ICE.

Make Your Court Appearances

According to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), a data research organization at Syracuse University, in the fiscal year 2021, 29,381 immigration cases witnessed the defendant not appearing in their court trial. If you have been released on immigration bail, it means that you have a pending immigration case. It is critical to make all of your court appearances on time. Failure to appear in court can result in a forfeiture of your immigration bond, which can cost thousands of dollars.

Stay Out of Trouble

Being out on immigration bonds means you should be on your best behavior. Any criminal convictions can impact your immigration case and may result in your bond being revoked. Even minor offenses such as traffic violations can negatively impact your case, so you must avoid any uncalled legal trouble.

Stay in Contact with Your Immigration Bond Company

If you used an immigration bond company to secure your release, it is important to stay in contact with them. It’s not like you have to be in touch with your bail bond agent around the clock, but every bail bond company has some conditions in their agreement. Failure to comply with these conditions can result in the forfeiture of your bond, which is why staying in touch with your bail bond company can immensely help to abide by the T&Cs of the bail bond agreement.

Attend All Required Check-Ins with ICE

Attend all the legally scheduled check-ins with ICE. These check-ins are typically scheduled every six months but may be more frequent depending on your case. Attend all required check-ins on time and bring all necessary documents and identification.

Conclusion

Being released on immigration bail is a big step toward resolving your immigration case, but it is crucial to understand what to do after being released from jail. Just ensure to be a law-abiding citizen throughout the period when you are out on bail, and probably you can avoid deportation or drop the charges pressed against you without any severe damage to your overall societal/financial status.

You get arrested and seek the help of a professional bail bondsman to help you get out of jail? But what after you are free and waiting for a trial? Most people land in trouble when they are on bail, and this can harm their case. Bail is your temporary release; it is a privilege granted to an individual charged with a crime, but if you are granted bail, you need to abide by the legal condition specified in your bail bond. The last thing you want to do is get in any more trouble than you are during your bail. Thus, if you are looking for ways to stay out of trouble, here are some tips!

Understand the Conditions of Bail:

Upon granting bail, a court may impose certain conditions the accused must adhere to. These conditions may include reporting to a probation officer regularly, refraining from contacting certain individuals, staying within a specific jurisdiction, or wearing an ankle monitor. It is important to understand and comply with all the conditions set by the court, as failure to do so may lead to the revocation of bail and re-arrest.

Stay Away from Drugs and Alcohol:

Statistics show that substance abuse is a common factor in criminal activity. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, about half of all individuals arrested for a crime, test positive for at least one illicit drug. When out on bail, staying away from drugs and alcohol is crucial as it can result in negative consequences such as impaired judgment, failure to adhere to court conditions, and the possibility of committing additional crimes. It is vital to be sober and avoid any situation that may lead to substance use.

Avoid Associating with Criminal Elements:

It is essential to avoid associating with individuals who have a criminal history or those who may influence you to commit crimes. According to the National Institute of Justice, 68% of individuals released from prison were rearrested within three years. By associating with individuals with a criminal record or engaging in activities not allowed while on bail, you run the risk of being implicated in another crime.

Go to work

The last thing you want is to sit idle in the house, not supporting your family. Facing criminal charges is pretty stressful and it can be a massive dent in your reputation. If you want to streamline the finances for your family and want your case to look good, you need to go to work as many days as possible. By doing so, you display to the court that you are trying to be a better person.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, you should be on your best behavior while you are on bail, but to do anything, you must reach out to licensed bail bond agents first, so they can help you to post or finance the bail. If you are searching for bail bonds near me or a bail bondsman near me, you can always rely on the professionals at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds to help you out!

Immigration has been a hotly debated topic in California for years. With millions of immigrants residing in the state, immigration laws and policies have been a significant issue for the state’s residents. One of the most significant concerns regarding immigration is the possibility of committing immigration felonies, which can lead to arrest and deportation. Undoubtedly, California immigration consultant bond professionals can help you out if you land in any such trouble, but to be on the safer side, here are some of the most common immigration felonies in California that can result in detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Illegal Entry into the United States:

According to statistics from the Department of Homeland Security, there were 351,081 apprehensions of individuals attempting to illegally enter the United States in 2020. Entering the United States without proper authorization is illegal and considered a federal crime. In California, this felony can result in a fine and imprisonment of up to six months. If you are detained for illegal entry into the states, you should consult immigration bail bond agents as soon as possible because the case becomes way too complicated.

Identity Theft:

Identity theft is another immigration felony that can result in an arrest in California. Using false or stolen documents to enter the country or to obtain employment is considered identity theft. This felony is punishable by up to three years of imprisonment and fines.

Harboring Illegal Immigrants:

According to the Migration Policy Institute, there were 2.6 million undocumented immigrants residing in California in 2019, accounting for approximately 6% of the state’s population. Harboring or hiding illegal immigrants from law enforcement is also considered an immigration felony in California. This offense is punishable by up to five years of imprisonment and fines. Additionally, individuals who knowingly hire illegal immigrants to work can also be prosecuted and face fines.

Falsifying Documents:

Falsifying documents to obtain legal status or work authorization is a federal crime. In California, this immigration felony can result in imprisonment of up to ten years and fines. If you have forged your Visa, passport, or any other immigration document, you are subject to the law and in case you are arrested for these charges, it’s imperative to consult immigration bail bond agents to prepare a strong case before the law.

Marriage Fraud:

Marriage fraud is the act of entering into a marriage for the sole purpose of obtaining immigration benefits. This immigration felony can result in imprisonment of up to five years and fines. As bizarre as it seems, people do get married for the Green Card perks and risk their chances of getting arrested!

Bottom Line:

Immigration laws and policies can be complex and confusing, making it easy for individuals to commit immigration felonies unknowingly. However, ignorance of the law is not a valid defense in court. If you or someone you know is facing charges for an immigration felony, it is essential to seek the guidance of an experienced professional for a California immigration consultant bond right away.

Bail bonds. It is an important service in the United States. This can be the last lifeline for people who are arrested to get out of jail and seek legal help.

There are nearly 9,000 bail bond services in the United States.

One thing that a bail bondsman will do for someone is give them immigration bonds. However, this is a subject that can get complicated depending on your case.

What is an immigration bond? How many different types of immigration bonds are there? How can they help you?

This is your guide.

What Are Immigration Bonds?

Before we can go into what type of immigration bonds you can get, you must understand what an immigration bond is. Essentially, this is just like a regular bail bond, only it is specifically designed for immigrants facing legal trouble.

So, imagine that you are an immigrant in the United States and you get arrested by ICE. The group then detains you and you are not living in the best conditions. Not only this, but you need to get out of jail to make sure that you find a good lawyer to represent you.

This is where an immigration bond can help someone. The bond will be posted to make sure that an immigrant in legal trouble can get out of jail. That person will have to put up a certain amount of money themselves depending on what their crime is.

Then, depending on what legal mess you are in, you can have the money returned to you once your case has been resolved. If your case does not get resolved or you violate the terms of the bail, then you will not get your money back.

Essentially, this gives immigrants a chance to make arrangements without having to spend time in an uncomfortable or unpleasant detention center.

Types of Immigration Bonds

Now that you have an idea of what immigration bonds do, we can start discussing the different types of immigration bonds in more detail. There are two different types of immigration bonds that you need to be aware of.

Departure Bonds

This is the first type of immigration bond that is available for you. If you want to create less work or have a cheaper bail bond, this could be the way to go for you.

So, what does this bond do? This is essentially an agreement that you are going to voluntarily leave the United States.

Some immigrants do this to avoid having a deportation record. Other immigrants do this because they feel that this is the faster route to getting out of a detention center and potentially fighting their legal battle from the outside.

It tends to be cheaper because it is an agreement to leave the country rather than the government risking your escaping and putting you back in jail. During the Trump administration, this became a very popular option for immigrants facing legal trouble.

The number of immigrants that applied for a departure bond doubled during the Trump administration compared to the previous administration. This could mean that more immigrants found their causes to be hopeless without fighting from the outside or people had other arrangements in their home countries.

It is a good option for those that want to get out of a detention center as quickly and as cleanly as possible. It is also a good option for those that have roots in their native lands and who can go back and have a life in their home countries. While this is not possible for everybody, your situation may benefit from this type of arrangement.

Delivery Bonds

On the other hand, delivery bonds are much closer to regular bail bonds. What we mean by this is that the only key difference is that you are dealing with a detention center rather than a jail. On top of this, it is specifically for immigration cases.

These tend to be more serious cases than departure bonds because ICE and other groups may consider these people a danger to society if they do not let them voluntarily leave the country. What this means is that this type of bond is likely to be the more expensive option.

An example could be if you are an immigrant that got caught selling any amount of heroin. Given the severity of the charge and how dangerous heroin is considered on the streets, the proper authorities may not be willing to let this person out of jail so easily.

What this means is that bail is going to be set higher and there will be different rules for this case. An example could be that the immigrant has to show up for every trial they are scheduled for and every check-in with police. If they fail to do this, then the bail bond could become null and void.

So, depending on the circumstances, this may be the only type of bail bond available for some immigrants.

Hire a Bail Bondsman

These are the two types of immigration bonds that you need to be aware of in North Carolina.

Depending on your case, it may be a simple departure bond where you are allowed to return to your native country. However, more serious cases may need delivery bonds so law enforcement can keep a closer eye on certain immigrants.

Do you need a bail bondsman? Get a free consultation here and see how we can help with your case today.

Did you know that there are over 1 million people currently incarcerated in the United States? While not every person who goes to jail has the opportunity to post bail, the majority can do so. However, it’s crucial to choose the right bail bond company before moving forward.

We’ve put together a brief guide that outlines everything you need to know in order to make the best decision. Let’s take a closer look at how you can simplify choosing a bail bond company for your immigration bond situation.

Understand the Bail Terms and Conditions

As you might assume, each company will have different policies and procedures in place.

Be sure to read through the terms of service to determine if there are any hidden fees or added costs you may not be aware of. It’s also important to understand how long it will take for your bond to be posted and what steps need to be taken before the bail agent can secure the release of the accused.

Do Your Research

It’s important to do some due diligence before picking a bail bond company. Don’t be afraid to ask for references, check with local authorities, and research online in order to get a better understanding of the different companies that you’re considering.

This can help you make an informed decision when it comes time to make your selection. Reading online reviews is a great way to get an idea of what past customers think about the services provided. When looking through past feedback, keep an eye out for any red flags that could be a sign of trouble ahead.

These include complaints about hidden fees, slow response times, or difficulty with the process.

Ask the Right Questions

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s time to schedule a consultation with each company.

During this conversation, make sure to ask any questions you may have about their services and experience in the bail bond industry. Additionally, be sure to inquire about the type of coverage that is offered and if the company is able to post bail nationwide.

Confirm whether or not they are willing to work with your budget and payment plans. Knowing all of this information beforehand will help ensure you’re making the right decision for your situation.

Know the Cost and Payment Plan Options

As you might guess, it’s essential to know exactly how much you are going to be paying for your bail bond ahead of time. In most cases, there will be a fee payable upfront that covers the bondsman’s services. Additionally, most companies will require a percentage of the total bond amount as collateral which is usually refundable after the court proceedings are concluded.

Ask about the payment plan options available so you can find something that fits within your financial means.

Find One That Is Available 24/7

This can be an important factor when it comes to posting bail. There may be times when you need to have your bond posted as soon as possible, so it’s best to find a company that is available 24/7 and can take your call at any time.

You should also inquire if they are willing to come to you if necessary in order to help expedite the process.

Are They Properly Licensed?

It’s important to verify that the bail bond company you are considering is properly licensed and in good standing with local regulations. You can also check if they have any complaints filed against them by visiting your local courthouse website. This will help ensure you are using the services of a reputable company that is knowledgeable in all aspects of the bail bond process.

How Is Their Customer Service?

The bail bond service you choose should make sure to provide you with responsive and helpful customer service. Ask around or read online reviews in order to get an idea of how the company treats its clients.

They should be available to answer any questions you have and will be willing to explain the process thoroughly so that you understand what is going on.

Compare Fees and Services

Bail bonds can be expensive, so it’s important to compare the fees and services of different companies before making a final decision.

This is also a great way to ensure you’re getting the best rate possible while still receiving quality service. In fact, many companies will offer discounts or payment plans to those who qualify. Make sure to ask about this before signing a contract so you can get the most out of your money.

What Are the Different Types of Bail?

When it comes to bail, there are four different types you should be aware of. This will help you better understand your situation so you can make the best decision for you.

Let’s take a closer look at each of them.

Cash Bond

This is the most common type of bond and requires the defendant to pay the entire amount of bail upfront. Cash bonds are typically set for minor crimes, such as theft. If the defendant cannot pay the cash bond, they must remain in jail until their trial.

Surety Bond

This is when a third-party company, such as a bail bondsman, pays the full amount of bail on behalf of the defendant. The defendant will then be responsible for repaying this company in full. This often occurs when the bond is set to a particularly large amount.

For example, is not conventional for a judge to set a cash bond that is tens of thousands of dollars in most cases.

Property Bond

This type of bond allows the defendant to use their property as collateral for bail. If they are unable to appear in court, this property may be sold in order to cover the cost of the bond. This is a less common option, but it is viable in many cases if the defendant does not have enough money to pay a cash bond.

Release on Own Recognizance

This is when the judge releases a defendant without requiring them to pay any money. The judge will usually do this if they deem the defendant not to be a flight risk. Once again, this typically occurs during minor crimes.

What Determines the Bail Amount?

The severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal background and history, any flight risk they may present, and the jurisdiction in which they are arrested all determine the amount of bail.

The judge will take all of this into consideration when setting this number. As you might guess, more serious crimes typically have higher bail amounts. In some situations, the judge may not allow the defendant to leave jail at all until the trial.

Those who have a history of legal issues regarding immigration, for instance, may have a particularly high bond amount.

Best Practices For Working With a Bail Bond Company

In order to get the most out of your relationship with them, there are a few best practices you should follow when working with a bail bond company. Provide them with all necessary information in a timely manner and make sure that it is accurate.

This will help the process go much smoother for everyone involved. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have about their services and experience in the bail bond industry.

Be courteous and professional when interacting with them as this can go a long way in maintaining a successful relationship. Finally, always keep them in the loop on any changes or updates that may come up throughout the process.

For instance, there may be changes to your immigration documentation that you need to inform your bail bondsman about.

What Common Mistakes Do People Make?

One of the most common mistakes people make when looking for a bail bond company is not researching their options beforehand. It’s important to take the time to compare different companies and what services they offer, so you can find one that best meets your needs.

Another mistake some people make is accepting whatever payment plan the company offers without negotiating. As mentioned before, many companies are willing to work with you and offer discounts or payment plans.

Never try to handle the process on your own without the help of a professional. This will substantially decrease your chances of coming out on top.

Choosing a Bail Bond Company Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult

Choosing a bail bond company that is best for you comes with plenty of benefits that you can’t neglect. Consider the above info so that you can make the decision that is best for you.

Looking for more information on what we can do? Reach out to us today to see how we can help.