All About Bail Bonds: 10 Fascinating Facts You Never Knew

The moments following your arrest can be scary, frustrating and confusing. The situation can only get worse when hit with a large bail amount. The key to handling a bad situation effectively is to know the facts of the situation and what will come next.

All About Bail Bonds: 10 Fascinating Facts You Never Knew

Having all the facts can make a huge difference when it comes to your bail. Read on to learn more about bail bonds and what happens after your arrest.

Your Bail Bond Agent Cannot Negotiate Your Bail Fee

A common misconception is that your bail bond agent can negotiate or reduce your bail fee. While the agent will be able to intercede on your behalf, find the source of your bail bond payment and help get the payment through, they cannot change the cost of your bail.

You bail bond fee is actually set ahead of time by the state where the arrest took place. Each state has a predetermined bail price depending upon the offense. In some extreme cases, the price of bail may be settled in court for larger offenses.

You Might Not Get Bail

It’s assumed that everyone is given a bail amount that accompanies their arrest, however, this is not the case. The 8th amendment did originally state that everyone is entitled to a reasonable bail, but this does not require that you receive bail.

Those being charged on a capital level or those who are being accused of committing a particularly violent crime may be denied the right to bail. This may or may not be taken up with a judge in court at a later date.

Your Bail Bond Premium is Non-Refundable

Whether you are innocent or not, once you pay to bail the payment. This is not a reflection of what is occurring with an arrest, rather the cost of hiring a bail bond agency to speak and organize on your behalf.

You Can Always try to Appeal Your Bail

If you feel that your bail was set at an unreasonable price considering the offense, you can always make the choice to appeal your bail. Once you make this decision, however, there is no guarantee that the bail amount will actually be reduced.

Remember, if you decide to appeal your bail it is the responsibility of your lawyer, not you bail agent to place and process the appeal.

Your Final Bail is Decided by a Judge

Whether jail is granted, lifted, or the amount is changed is all determined by a Judge. The judge makes their decision on the foundation of the state law. That being said the state law is more of a ballpark figure that correlates with the offense.

A judge may place the bail amount slightly above or below the state bail estimate.

You Will Need a Cosigner

Even after you have paid your bail you will have to set a date to appear in court. Part of setting your court date is having a cosigner sign a statement ensuring that you will arrive at court.

The cosigner could be someone you know, or it could be your bail agent. It’s important to remember that whoever serves as your cosigner will be accountable for your attendance. If you do not show up to court your cosigner will be held responsible.

There are Serious Consequences to Not Appearing in Court

While you know it’s important to appear in court, many are unaware that it’s mandatory to appear in court. Not appearing for your court date is a fast way to be held in contempt.

Once you’ve missed your court date you will be facing severe penalties, as well as starting off on the wrong foot within the eyes of the judge.

You Can Work Once You Post Bail

Once your bail has been paid and you have left jail, you are able to return to your normal life. This means you can get back to working and taking care of your family while you await your court date.

The only time this may not be the case is if the offense involves one of these areas and a restraining order has been put into action. In which case a separate court date would have to be arranged if you plan on appealing the restraining order.

It May Be a While Before Your First Call

The full booking process will need to be completed before you get your phone call, even if that phone call is to a bail bonds agent. Unfortunately, the full process can take several hours before you’re given the opportunity to call.

If you’re in the situation where you’ve been waiting an extended period of time, we don’t suggest pushing it. It could make the process even longer. Your best bet is to patiently wait for your turn and make the most logical phone call, not an emotional one.

Your time to make decisions in this situation is limited, so it’s best to use the time you’re waiting in the smartest way by creating a plan.

The Faster You’re Out of Jail, the Better

Despite how expensive a bail bond may be, it’s in your best interest to pay the bond as quickly as possible. Paying the bond will allow you to get back to work, helping you keep your financial status in place.

Getting out of jail quickly will also give you more time to convene with your attorney and create a solid plan for your approaching court date. Facing the situation head on it generally the best way to confront things.

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