Everything You Need to Know About Bail for Domestic Violence

A domestic violence arrest can destroy your life. Actual abuse is rampant in modern relationships, but so are false allegations. It’s important that you protect yourself if you’re ever accused.

Securing bail for domestic violence offenders can be difficult. The judge considers your criminal history and the magnitude of your crime.

Setting bail about isn’t about proving your innocence. You’ll have a chance to do that later at your trial. If you can’t afford to pay your full bail amount upfront, a bail bondsman can help.

Bondsmen usually require you to pay 15% of the total bail, although sometimes they’re willing to negotiate.

The process can be confusing, especially if you’re not used to it. We’ve created a guide of things that you should keep in mind if you or a loved one are ever arrested for domestic violence.

So You’ve Been Arrested. What Will You Be Charged With?

People arrested for domestic violence in North Carolina can be hit with multiple charges. Depending on your history and what happened during the incident, you might be looking at a simple misdemeanor or a far more serious felony charge.

Often a civil complaint is brought forward at the same time. The alleged victim can ask for a restraining order. If it’s granted, you’ll have to stay away from him or her for a set period of time, usually a year.

Should You Hire an Attorney or Post Bail?

Being arrested is a stressful experience. A lot of people don’t know what to do when they find themselves in jail.

Sometimes, people think they should immediately hire an attorney. It’s never a bad idea to seek legal representation but you should try to secure your bail first. Sometimes after a domestic violence arrest, the police don’t have enough evidence to present a probable case.

If that happens, your case might be dismissed. Even if your case is headed to trial, it will be easier for you to fight the charges if you’re not incarcerated.

That’s why the first thing you should do after your arrest is to post bail.

Posting Bail for Domestic Violence

The judge has a lot of leeway when he sets bail for domestic violence offenders.

You might be able to pay the entirety of your bail yourself or the judge may decide that you can be released on your own recognizance without paying anything at all.

If the judge sets your bail amount too high, you will need help paying it. Family and friends can help but their finances might be just as tight.

A bail bondsman can help. You only need to pay a small percentage of your bail and the bondsman will put up the rest. This allows you to go home sooner.

Find Out More

If you can’t afford to post bail yourself, contact a bail bonds company immediately so you don’t have to sit in jail.

Call 919-790-6887 to speak with one of our experienced bondsmen today. We understand that this is a difficult time. But, We can help you navigate the process.