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Legal troubles and arrests may come unexpectedly, and you could face a lengthy incarceration pending trial. Or, you may discover that a loved one got caught up in the justice system and sits in a cell awaiting adjudication. Regardless of the situation, an option exists for those who feel things appear hopeless. Posting bail will secure the accused’s release from jail until his or her next court appearance. For some, posting bail is a confusing, daunting task. They might be unfamiliar with the court system and how bail works. They may never have previously dealt with a bail bonds service, leading them to prescribe to myths about the process. Addressing some common myths might substantially help someone struggling with their legal jeopardies.
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Myth #1: Defendants must pay 100% of the bail amount.
Among the most pervasive myths about posting bail is the notion that the accused must pay 100% of the bail money in cash. If that were the case, bail bonds companies would not exist. The entire purpose of a bail bonds company is to reduce the amount of money some must put up for their bail.
That does not mean that the bond company lowers the bail amount. An attorney couldn’t negotiate a lower bond, but not the bail bondsman. However, the bail bondsman will generally accept a 10% payment of the bail amount from the client or the client’s representative. That brings us to another myth: only the defendant can work with the bail company. A friend, relative, attorney, and others can bail someone out of jail if they pay the money directly or work with a bail bonds company.
Regardless, the bail bond company will require 10% and put up the remaining 90%. When the defendant shows up in court, the bail is refunded. Consider another myth: the court does not keep the bail if the defendant appears in court. However, the bail bonds company will keep their 10%.
Myth #2: Anyone working with a bail bonds company must have liquidity to cover losses in the event of a non-appearance.
Liquidity is another word for cash. So, if the bail amount is $10,000, the client would typically pay $1,000 in cash and then offer collateral, such as a car, jewelry, or other property, to cover the remaining balance. Sometimes, the $1,000 can be paid with something other than cash, such as a valuable asset. Discussing such matters with a specific bail bonds company to determine their policy would seem advisable.
Myth #3: Bail only involves defendants facing aggravated felonies.
A person may face incarceration for nonviolent crimes, and the bail amount could be quite high. Thankfully, a bail bonds company will work with someone who is facing charges that are not severe. Therefore, procuring a bail posting arrangement could be possible regardless of the charges.
Contacting a bail bonds company without delay could be wise when navigating the criminal justice system and help get someone out of jail more quickly. Dispelling myths about bail bonds could help someone quickly secure their release from jail and start working on an effective defense.
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