There are a lot of common misconceptions about the bail system and bail bonds. While the concept can be straightforward, there are a lot of myths and questions out there about the bail industry. Read on to find out more about the reality of bail bonds.
#1 You Need A Lot of Cash On Hand
This misconception usually stems from a misunderstanding of the different types of bail. Let’s say a person’s bail is set at $20k. If you choose to pay their bail yourself, you’ll have to bring the full amount to the court clerk. They will then hold on to the payment and, as long as the defendant fulfills their court obligations, the payment will be returned to you minus any relevant court fees.
However, working with a bail bondsman is different. You pay only a small fraction of the bail amount as a fee to obtain the defendant’s release. To have a bail bondsman bail someone out with bail set at $20k would likely cost somewhere around 10%, sometimes less.
#2 You Can’t Bail Someone Out for Serious Crimes
The right to bail is guaranteed by the 8th Amendment of the US Constitution. As a result, the vast majority of defendants in custody are eligible for bail. However, certain circumstances can result in ineligibility for bail. Should a defendant be deemed a threat to the community or a flight risk, they might not be eligible.
#3 Being Out on Bail is Just Like Being Free
Unfortunately this is usually not the case. When a person is bailed out of jail there will almost certainly be conditions that must be adhered to. These conditions frequently include, but are not limited to, avoiding certain people/organizations, remaining drug and/or alcohol free, and continuing to attend school or work.
Ultimately, working with a bail bondsman is a simple, lower-cost way to get someone out of jail before their court date.
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