What is Bail?

What the Bail Process Actually Looks Like in Practice.

Getting arrested can be difficult. However, it can be even more difficult if you don’t know how to post bail and get access to the money you need. While bail can be as low as a few hundred dollars, it can sometimes be extremely expensive. If you or a loved one are arrested, you need to be ready for the bail process. Fortunately, we have your back. Here is everything that you need to know.

Getting Arrested
The first step of the bail bond process is the initial arrest. After you are arrested and are taken to jail to be processed, you will be given an opportunity to make a phone call. During this time, you will want to contact a bail bond company yourself or call a family member who can do it for you. In most jails there is a list of phone numbers of bonds people to make the process easier.

The judge will consider many factors when setting the amount of bail. Your criminal history and the crime you are being charged with play a big part of the amount set. Also, where you plan to live while the case is pending (it is common for someone from out of state to be arrested locally) will factor into the decision.

Finding a Bail Bond Company Once you find a bail bond agency to call, you will make arrangements to be released. When working with a bail bonds agent, you will need to provide the necessary information, including your full name, the jail’s location, the booking or report number, and your charges. Preparing For Costs To get the bail paid by the bail bond company, you will need to fill out paperwork and pay the agent a percentage of the bail amount. Typically, it will be necessary to pay a fee of approximately 10% of the bail amount. In some cases, bail may be up to 15%, depending on the nature of the charges, the criminal history, and where the person plans to live. This non-refundable fee is known as a premium. It is common to require some form of collateral to put up for the bail bond and/or a co-signor who will agree to be responsible for the full amount of the bond at the time you post your bond. Once everything is in order, the bail bond agents will pay the full amount of the bail. Posting Bail After bail has been posted, you’ll get released from jail. The process of posting bail may take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. After you’re released, you’ll need to make sure to go to court when you’re scheduled. If you successfully show up in court you will keep your collateral, and the bail bond process will be complete. If you fail to show up in court, the bail bond company will take your collateral or more commonly, they will sue the co-signor for the bail bond and a warrant will go out for your arrest. When faced with a criminal arrest, you risk the loss of your freedom. Having the best criminal defense team on your side is imperative. At Parks Zeigler, our experienced criminal defense lawyers will work with you to minimize your penalties & fines and reduce the risk of incarceration. Our team plays an important part of the criminal defense process by understanding your legal rights and work to attain the best possible outcome in your case.

The Attorneys at Parks Zeigler Can Help Answer Your Questions

As always, if you have questions or if you or someone you love needs an experienced Criminal Defense attorney call 888-691-9319 or fill out this short form today.