Though posting bail is a situation most hope to never find themselves in, it is important to understand how this process works in case this ever occurs. Legal proceedings can be stressful, making it difficult to know where to start. Here are some things to keep in mind if you ever need to secure a bail bond.
Bondsmen are available.
Getting a bondsman for your case is a common option and one of the simplest ways to cover your bail. However, make sure you are using a reputable bondsman. Verify their licensing and check on any other necessary requirements within your state, as every state will have different laws for regulating bondsmen. Make contact with potential bondsmen and ask questions before making a decision.
You will pay a premium.
Using a bondsman can simplify your bond process, but you will have to pay a premium for the bondsman. Usually this premium is about 10% of your total bond amount, and some bondsmen may also require a bond to be above a certain amount.
You can post your own bail.
If you have the financial capability, you may consider posting your own bail. This option eliminates the need for a third party to be involved in your legal situation at all. Additionally, posting your own bail will make the process much simpler, since you are using your own money for the bail.
You can ask for recognizance.
When your preliminary hearings are taking place, you can attempt to prove that you are not a flight risk. If the judge allows it, you may be able to bypass bail entirely and be released on personal recognizance instead. This gives you a greater responsibility to appear in court on your appointed date, but it will save you some money.
Avoid using property.
Simply offering property for your bail may seem like an easy option, but this can potentially have negative consequences. The danger of having your property (usually a car or a house) taken by the court is very real. Plus, if your property ends up being confiscated by the court this can lead to serious financial problems down the road.
Show up to your court date.
No matter how you post bail, if you don’t show up to your court date, you will forfeit your bail amount to the court. Not only this, but the court will also issue a warrant for your arrest. Additionally, if you used a bondsman, a bounty hunter may be sent to collect you for the court. If you need bail, always appear at your court date, no matter what.
