Category: Blog

Okay, if you have to name some of the most frequent crimes in North Carolina, shoplifting would probably top the list. Do you have any idea that 10% of American citizens have said that they have shoplifted at least once in their lives, what’s shocking is for many, shoplifting is a weekly or even a daily habit. Yes, if you are arrested for shoplifting, a North Carolina bondsman can help you get out of jail before your trial, but do you know what should you do when you are caught for shoplifting? Well, here’s a brief!

What is Shoplifting?

Most people don’t realize that shoplifting can change their life and send them to jail. Some individuals shoplift for financial issues, whereas others do it because they enjoy the rush, but this small crime that doesn’t seem like a big deal can have a serious impact on the shoplifter’s life. Let’s be clear shoplifting doesn’t just mean pocketing candy or something tiny and walking out of the store without paying for it; it means cops arresting you for theft in a store.

In North Carolina, shoplifting falls under the broader category of larceny, which involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property. Shoplifting can encompass various actions, including concealing items, altering price tags, or simply leaving the store without paying for merchandise.

What after you are caught?

When you are caught shoplifting, several things could happen after that point:

• You may be allowed to leave with a warning.
• The store might ask you to fill out paperwork and/or ban you from ever returning to the store.
• Depending on how much you stole, the store can ask you to compensate for the product.
• Or in the worst-case scenario, they can call the cops.

Penalties for Shoplifting

If you are caught shoplifting in NC, the severity of the penalties typically depends on the value of the stolen goods or your prior criminal record. Typically, for first-time offenders, and low-value thefts, the consequences encompass minor fines, community service, or probation. However, for larger thefts or repeated offenses, the penalties can escalate to felony or misdemeanor charges and potentially lead to imprisonment.

Legal Procedures When You Are Caught:

When you are apprehended for shoplifting in NC, the store has the right to detain you and involve law enforcement. In such situations, it’s imperative on your part to remain calm and cooperative. After that, you will be issued a citation or a Notice to Appear, which indicates a date for a court appearance. You must take this notice seriously and appear before the court as instructed.

Apart from criminal charges, individuals caught shoplifting in North Carolina might also face civil penalties. Storeowners have the option to pursue civil claims to recover damages resulting from the theft, and this could involve paying for the stolen items, compensating for any damages caused during the incident, and covering the store’s legal fees.

Conclusion

Shoplifting charges can be severe, but they can be even more critical when it’s associated with an illegal immigrant. Whether you are associated with an immigration violation or arrested for shoplifting, feel free to reach out to the North Carolina bail bondsman at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds, and they can help you understand everything surrounding bail bonds. Need more information, or want to schedule a consultation with a Raleigh, NC bail bondsman? Contact us today!

According to recent research, More than 10 million arrests are made each year in the United States.

Navigating the legal landscape can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the intricacies of court bonds and bail. Without the relevant legal knowledge, you risk your right to freedom.

So what is court bond, exactly? In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about posting bail and getting out of jail.

Read on to learn about bail bonds and why they could matter to you.

What is Court Bond?

Understanding the concepts of court bonds and bail is key to navigating the legal system effectively. It allows individuals to make informed decisions and ensures they comply with legal requirements. This knowledge demystifies a part of the legal process that can often seem overwhelming and complex.

At its core, a court bond is a legal instrument designed to ensure compliance with court rulings. It acts as a security measure, guaranteeing that individuals involved in legal proceedings will fulfill their obligations.

Types of Court Bond

These bonds come in various forms, tailored to different legal situations. For instance, bail bonds are used in criminal cases, while fiduciary bonds are more common in cases involving the management of estates or guardianship.

The purpose of a court bond is to protect the legal system and the parties involved in it. For example, in a criminal case, a bail bond ensures that the defendant returns for trial, while in a civil matter, a fiduciary bond ensures that a person handling someone else’s assets does so responsibly.

Understanding these differences will help you make the best decision for your case.

Bail Bonds: Your Gateway to Temporary Freedom

Bail bonds hold a central place in the justice system. When someone is arrested, they have the opportunity to be released from custody until their trial.

This release is contingent on bail – a set amount of money that acts as a financial guarantee to the court. The amount of bail is determined based on several factors, including the severity of the crime and the defendant’s history.

A bail bond, provided by a bail bond company, is an assurance to the court that the defendant will return for all scheduled court appearances. In essence, it’s a form of insurance. The bail bond company usually charges a percentage of the bail amount as a fee for this service.

Bond Versus Bail: Understanding the Distinction

It’s essential to distinguish between ‘bond’ and ‘bail’. Bail is the amount set by the court for the defendant’s release. A bond, on the other hand, is the surety provided, usually by a bail bond company.

This distinction is crucial because it highlights the role of the bail bond company as a facilitator in the legal process, providing a financial guarantee on behalf of the defendant.

Your bond amount will vary on a number of factors. These could include your prior criminal history, the nature of your crimes, and local regulations. 

The Role of Surety Bonds in Legal Proceedings

Surety bonds play a broader role than just in bail situations. They are used to ensure that various obligations are met, whether it’s following court orders or executing duties faithfully in roles like estate administrators or guardians.

A surety bond involves three parties: the defendant, the court, and the bail bond company. The bail bond company, acting as the surety, guarantees to the court that the defendant will adhere to the bail conditions, primarily returning for all scheduled court appearances.

If the defendant fails to comply, the bail bond company is liable to pay the full bail amount to the court.

Navigating the Path to Freedom: Getting Out of Jail

The process of securing release from jail involves several steps. It starts with the court setting the bail. If the defendant cannot afford the bail amount, they can turn to a bail bond service.

This service requires a fee, typically a percentage of the bail amount, and in return, they provide a bond to the court. This bond assures the court that the defendant will adhere to the conditions of their release, including appearing for all scheduled court appearances.

Choosing a Bail Bond Service

Navigating the legal system can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to securing a bail bond for yourself or a loved one. Choosing the right bail bond service is crucial to ensure a smooth process. Here are 3 indispensable tips to help you select a trustworthy and efficient bail bond agency.

1. Assess the Bail Bond Agency’s Reputation

When it comes to bail bond services, reputation is key. Opt for an agency with a solid track record. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge their reliability and service quality. A reputable bail bond company should be known for its professionalism and prompt response.

2. Verify Licensing and Experience

Ensure the bail bond company is licensed to operate in your state. A licensed agency adheres to legal standards, offering you protection and peace of mind. Additionally, consider their experience in the field. Experienced agents are better equipped to handle complex cases and navigate the legal system effectively.

3. Understand the Fee Structure

Before committing, understand the fee structure of the bail bond service. Transparency in fees is critical. Avoid companies that are vague about their charges or those that offer deals that seem too good to be true. A reliable agency will be upfront about their fees, ensuring no hidden charges surface later

What is Court Bond? Simplifying Legal Complexities

Court bonds and bail play a pivotal role in the legal system, balancing the need for individual freedom with compliance and attendance in court.

Grasping these concepts empowers one to navigate the legal landscape with more confidence and understanding, thereby simplifying what might otherwise be a daunting journey through the legal system.

So, stop asking ‘What is court bond?’ and take the first step towards freedom by reaching out to our comprehensive bail bond service. With more than 50,000 satisfied clients and 75 years of collective experience, we can help you get the justice you deserve. 

God forbid that it should never happen, but imagine someone you care deeply about being entangled in the legal system due to the charges of drug possession. Seems awry and stressful; doesn’t it? Well, if the weight of the legal situation is intensifying when you are trying to secure bail in a drug possession case, Raleigh drug possession bail bonds can come in handy. The nature of charges in a drug possession case can significantly impact the cost of bail bonds, and if you can’t bear the financial burden on your own, a bail bond company can immensely help. However, to help you see the connection between drug possession charges and the cost of bail bonds, here’s a guide.

Nature of Drug Possession Charges:

Drug possession charges encompass the unlawful holding of controlled substances for personal use. Severity varies based on factors like substance type, quantity, criminal history, and state laws. Misdemeanor charges involve smaller quantities, while felonies entail larger amounts or intent to distribute.

Bail Determination Process:

The bail amount is set in a hearing where a judge considers the nature of the offense, criminal history, ties to the community, and flight risk. For drug possession charges, bail may rise if the defendant is deemed a threat or for substantial drug quantities. Well, many people who find themselves arrested aren’t fortunate enough to pay their own bail and get out of jail quickly. However, you can do that with the help of a licensed bail bondsman. If you are arrested for something, like drug possession, there’s always a way out for you to work with professional bail bond agents to secure bail for a 15% premium fee.

Impact on Bail Bond Costs:

Bail bond costs involve a percentage of bail and this percentage is dependent on the overall bail amount determined by court-perceived risks. For drug possession charges, especially felonies or substantial quantities, agents might charge higher premiums due to perceived risk. Due to risk, agents might seek collateral, like property, to mitigate potential losses if the defendant flees. Some agencies might deny bail for severe charges or repeat offenders.

Mitigating Factors and Legal Options:

Defendants can explore legal options to reduce bail bond costs. Seeking counsel, showing community ties or stable employment, and undergoing rehabilitation can influence perceptions and, subsequently, bail bond expenses.

Conclusion

Drug possession bail bonds in Raleigh don’t just help the defendant to secure freedom before their pending trial; it also helps them to get the right to fair treatment before the law. If you or someone you love is stuck in a case involving drug possession and the court deems them eligible for bail, go for a drug possession bail bonds company in Wake County without any second thoughts to get the bail amount for a small premium free.

Besides, bail bond agents can also help you understand the intricacies of bail and the impact of charges on the cost of your bail. Looking for licensed bail bond agents to post the bail for someone charged with drug possession? Schedule a free consultation with the bond agents at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today!

One thing constant about the law is the intersection of different regulations and amendments. For instance, the laws in civil law and criminal law can intersect and so can the laws in criminal law and immigration law. Every year, thousands of immigrants decide to settle in the States because it offers a plethora of opportunities. However, some people decide to overstay their visas or commit immigration violations intentionally or unintentionally.

Undoubtedly immigration violations on their own are punishable offenses, but pending immigration cases can exacerbate the severity of certain crimes and lead to escalated legal ramifications and complex legal battles. Want to understand the compounding effect and comprehend how an immigration bond company can help? Here’s some information.

A Brief Overview of the Compounding Effect

When an individual has pending immigration violations, involvement in certain criminal activities can markedly escalate the legal implications. The combination can aggravate the severity of charges and alter legal outcomes, leading to profound implications for the individual’s immigration status and legal proceedings.

Types of Crimes Amplified by Pending Immigration Violations:

• Fraudulent Activities: Instances of fraud, such as identity theft, financial fraud, or document forgery, can intensify in legal gravity when an individual already has pending immigration violations. The addition of these charges to an immigration case can result in a significantly more complex legal situation.

• Drug Offenses: Drug-related offenses, even minor possession charges, can trigger severe consequences when combined with pending immigration violations. This compound situation often leads to heightened penalties and possible deportation, which you can get out of if you go for drug possession bail bonds.

• Violent Crimes: Charges related to assault, domestic violence, or other violent acts take on a more severe tone when coupled with pending immigration violations. These situations can drastically affect an individual’s legal standing and immigration status.
• Human Trafficking or Smuggling: Involvement in human trafficking or smuggling activities amplifies the gravity of the offense when immigration violations are also pending. Legal repercussions are often more stringent, with deportation becoming a real possibility.

Navigating the Charges with Bail Bonds

Different types of immigration violations can land someone in ICE detention centers. From overstaying visas to unauthorized employment in the States without proper paperwork, or entry without inspection, immigration violations can be challenging. However, when your immigration violations are coupled with criminal convictions, the consequences can be more complicated than you can ever imagine. In such circumstances, to prepare a flawless case, get ready for your trial with proper evidence, and unite with your family before the possible risk of deportation or incarceration, bail bonds can be a great idea.

The Bottom Line

Getting detained by the ICE can be overwhelming for you as well as your family. Besides, immigration laws are more complex than you might ever think and if you are seeking US immigration bonds, go for professionals who are familiar with the bail bond landscape. Need more information, or want to consult licensed bail bond agents for immigration bonds or bail bonds concerning other cases? Contact the team at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today!

Yes, getting arrested is tough.

Being labeled as a criminal before you are proven guilty is emotionally shattering.

And getting imprisoned for a crime and putting your entire life on hold is overwhelming.

However, did you ever think about the friends and family of the accused person at the risk of incarceration? Seeing a loved one getting arrested by a law enforcement officer is never easy, but knowing that they understand their rights in jail can be somewhat comforting. If a loved one you care about is arrested, it’s vital to understand the rights of an inmate. To help you get started, here is a guide from the licensed bail bondsman in Greensboro, NC.

A Brief Overview

For one, you must understand that basic human rights cannot be taken away from anyone, irrespective of whether they are arrested. To begin with, every inmate is given their First Amendment rights, which are valid to the extent that they don’t affect their status as an inmate. A bail bondsman in Greensboro, NC,can help defendants post bail while they are awaiting their trial. However, before their bail is granted and they are stuck in jail, they can always use their First Amendment rights to ensure protection against inhumane treatment, such as any unusual punishment or cruelty.

The Right to Non-Discrimination

While you are in jail, no one can discriminate against race, gender, or anything else. If you can prove that you faced discrimination in jail, the court uses rational-basis scrutiny to evaluate if it is constitutional. In addition, inmates should also not be harassed by the prison staff or inmates, and if they are being harassed or being allowed by the law enforcement staff in jails to be in situations where they can be harassed it can lead to severe penalties and criminal sanctions for the perpetrators.

Right to Medical Care and Access to Communication

Incarceration doesn’t negate someone’s right to adequate medical attention. The Eighth Amendment extends to healthcare, mandating facilities to provide necessary medical treatment. Inmates are entitled to receive medication, therapy, and attention for existing conditions. Despite confinement, inmates retain the right to communicate with the outside world, and this includes visits, phone calls, and written correspondence with family and legal counsel. Restrictions may exist for security purposes, but these don’t infringe unreasonably upon this right.

Conclusion

Whether you or someone you know has been arrested for drug possession, DUI/DWI, shoplifting, or something more severe, you should always know your rights as an inmate. The constitution of the United States presumes an individual is innocent until proven guilty, and using bail bonds is an excellent way to invoke your rights while you are arrested. You can apply for bail, and if the court deems you eligible, all you need to do is reach out to a licensed bail bond agent for financial aid, and they can help you post bail for a small premium fee.

Are you looking for licensed bond agents who can help you with bail? Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds can always be your one-stop destination to get started.

What we see in the legal system from the periphery differs from what people see in the epicenter. How? Well, imagine a world where victims of crimes aren’t just bystanders in the legal process, but are active participants in seeking justice and support. While the alleged accused is the center of attention in every case, victims also need empowerment and support. Yes, they have attorneys for active representation in the court, but agencies offering bail bonds in Richmond, VA, also play an integral role in victim advocacy. How? Read on to explore!

Ensuring Security and Safety

You might already know that bail bond agencies act as intermediaries between the defendants and the judicial system. They aid individuals to secure release from custody before their pending trial by providing a financial guarantee to the court. However, they also work diligently to educate the defendant about the conditions of their release, including stay-away orders and restraining orders. By letting defendants know about their boundaries in the law and compliance regulations of the bail, bail bond agents also help to create a safer environment for the victims and reduce the risk of further harm.

Facilitation Restitution

Bail bond agents work closely with the defendants to ensure victims receive well-deserved compensation in cases where restitution is ordered. Undoubtedly, inmates have their rights in jail, and defendants have their rights when on bail, but bail comes with certain terms and conditions. By monitoring the financial obligations of the defendants, bail bond agents can also help to facilitate the restitution process, hence promoting a sense of closure and justice for victims.

Addressing Financial Impact on Victims:

At times, the alleged accused also suffer brutally when they haven’t committed the crime and are still behind bars awaiting to post their bail for a sum beyond their financial capability. Victims of crime often face financial strain due to the consequences of the offense. Bail bond agencies can indirectly alleviate this burden by enabling defendants to secure release without paying the entire bail amount upfront. This allows defendants to continue employment, potentially providing financial restitution to victims, and eases the financial strain on affected individuals.

Conclusion

While most people may not realize this, victim advocacy forms a significant component of the criminal justice system. A bondmandoesn’t just help the accused defendant to secure their freedom and continue their life; they also provide support and assistance to those who have experienced trauma due to criminal activities indirectly. There’s no denying that the prime focus of a Richmond, VA bail bondsmanis on defendants. Still, the agencies also play a crucial role in victim advocacy and promote a more empathetic approach within the legal framework.

In fact, these agencies become instrumental in supporting victims throughout the legal journey by fostering accountability, facilitating communication, and indirectly addressing financial impacts and searching for a bail bond agent to help you post bail or support you in adhering to the terms and conditions of your bail. Contact the team at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds today!

In the criminal justice system, bail is significant for so many reasons. From the federal POV, bail is integral to reducing overcrowding in jail and providing defendants the opportunity to present a strong case without inhibitions. However, for the individuals in jail, bail is their fundamental right that upholds the principle of presuming innocence until someone is proven guilty.

In a world where people are stereotyped as criminals once they are arrested, bail serves as a guarantee of fair treatment and securing freedom and wondering why you need 24-hour bail bond services in Raleigh, NC, and how bail offers you the chance to safeguard your basic rights to fair treatment? We might have some information for you!

The Presumptions of Innocence

The criminal justice system works on the principle of someone being innocent until someone is proven guilty. So, when you are arrested by law enforcement officers, always remember that you have the right to be treated as an innocent person until the evidence proves otherwise in court. However, how do you make a 100% effort to gather evidence and prepare a rock-solid case to prove your innocence when restrained in a legal facility?

That’s when bail bonds come to the rescue. Whether you want felony bail bonds or DWI bail bonds in Raleigh, they allow you to have complete freedom, continue your daily life, and prepare for your case while you avoid the hardship of pre-trial detention.

The Right to Bail

Depending on the eligibility determined by the defendant’s past criminal history, the severity of the crime, and ties to the community, the right to bail is granted by the constitution of the United States. The right to bail is based on the belief that an individual should be never imprisoned without a valid reason. However, when someone is accused of a crime, the court sets a bail amount that exceeds your immediate financial means. Why?

Because this ensures you will show up in court and attend your trial without fleeing. Basically, the bail amount guarantees that an individual will show up in court on the pre-determined trial date or forfeit the bail amount.

The Legal Framework

The Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution mandates that bail shall not be excessive. This fundamental provision ensures that bail amounts remain fair and reasonable, preventing the imposition of unduly high sums that could impede someone’s ability to secure bail. Besides, defendants also have the right to contest bail if they believe it is unfairly high or beyond their financial capacity.

The Bottom Line

Most people don’t realize that bail bonds serve as a bridge between freedom and incarceration. If you want to comprehend your rights and ensure fair treatment within the legal system; it’s essential to understand the concept of bail bonds, and bail bond agencies play a crucial role in victim advocacy . Whether you are searching for DWI bail bonds in Raleigh, or your concern is something else, reach out to the contacts at Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds if you want to secure your freedom without any financial inhibitions to post bail.

Imagine being held in jail and charged for a crime you didn’t commit. The jail’s staff also do little to point you in the right direction regarding your release.

Incarceration, even for brief periods, can have substantial negative effects on your mental health. In most cases, you can bail yourself out of jail by paying a certain amount of money.

Many people choose to use bail bond services to help them do so. It’s possible to leverage 24-hour bail bonds to get out of jail as soon as possible, but not everyone understands how.

We’ve written a brief guide with the key information you should consider during the process. Let’s explore what you need to know.

Arrest/Booking

After you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to jail. This is true regardless of where you’re arrested or what time your arrest took place.

During the booking process, you’ll need to provide personal information. This includes your address, name, date of birth, and identifying marks.

The latter can consist of notable scars or tattoos. You will then be photographed and fingerprinted for documentation purposes.

Depending on certain factors, booking can take several hours to complete. The timeline is primarily influenced by how busy the jail is and how quickly the staff acts.

You will then either have to stay in custody until the following morning or will have a bond set for your release. In general, being accused of serious crimes often requires you to stay in jail until your first court hearing.

Contacting an Attorney

If you plan on fighting your case, it’s imperative to contact an attorney after you’re booked. They can help you better understand your charges and how to navigate them. They can also provide support during trying times.

As previously mentioned, it’s not uncommon for people to experience emotional distress after getting arrested. This is especially true if someone is wrongfully accused.

If you can’t afford an attorney, the court will appoint a public defender. You might not be able to contact them until your first court hearing, though. It’s always in your best interest to hire an attorney when possible.

Primary Court Hearing

Your primary court hearing will occur as soon as a judge is available to handle your case. This often occurs within 24 hours after arriving at the jail.

At the hearing, the judge will make decisions about certain situations. They can decide to release you as long as you promise to appear back in court.

This is called a recognizance release or signature release. Judges often grant this type of release for people without criminal history or for minor crimes.

They might also set a bond for the defendant. This is an amount of money you must pay to be granted release.

It’s also possible for the judge to keep you in jail without bond. There won’t be an opportunity for release until after your trial concludes.

This can lead to numerous complications, as it could be months or even years before you see the end of your trial. If you are sentenced to additional jail time, judges will often consider the time you already served. So, let’s assume you spend a year in jail while waiting for your trial to conclude.

The judge sentences you to 1.5 years in jail as punishment. Since you’ve already served a year, you’ll only serve six months if they consider the time you’ve already served.

Posting Bail

You can pay your bail in cash or through a bond. If you don’t have the cash to pay your bill, working with a bond agent can help you. You’ll pay an extra fee for their services since they’re essentially loaning you the money to pay your bond.

To obtain Raleigh bail bonds, you’ll need to contact a bond service provider. Let’s assume your bail is set at $50,000.

A bondsman might charge you $7,500 in exchange for the $50,000 to bail you out of jail. This fee is not refundable and is generally a percentage of the total bail amount.

Release from Jail

Release is often granted with certain conditions. For example, the accused individual could be ordered to refrain from interacting with firearms or dangerous weapons.

They can also be returned to jail if they engage in criminal activity. Another common condition of release is avoiding contact with witnesses or victims associated with the case.

The released individual must attend all of their court hearings or risk forfeiting their bail. Sometimes, people aren’t released from jail if they are deemed liable to not return to court. This is especially true if the court considers someone to be a flight risk.

If you use a bondsman to post bail and don’t return to court, the service provider will forfeit this money. This can lead to additional legal issues in the future.

Finding Bail Bond Services

When searching for bail bonds in Raleigh NC, it’s imperative to check their past reputation. This offers valuable insight into what type of experience you’ll get.

See what other people have to say about the bond service’s professionalism and timeliness. Never work with Raleigh bail agents who charge you more than the total bond amount.

Disreputable service providers often say they can get your charges dropped if you pay an extra fee. This is never true and is a red flag you should search elsewhere. Assess how comfortable you are communicating with them.

If something seems off, there’s no shame in exploring other options. With enough due diligence, you’ll find the best solution for your needs.

Don’t Neglect 24-Hour Bail Bonds

In many situations, 24-hour bail bonds can make your life substantially easier. You can get out of jail as soon as possible and start fighting your case. Just be sure to find a reputable bondsman.

Amistad Bail and Immigration Bonds prides itself on offering a fast and considerate bail bond service. With more than 75 years of collective experience, we’ve helped over 50,000 clients handle their legal issues. You can learn more about the benefits we provide by getting in touch with us today.