How Do You Know If Your Case Is Eligible For A Bail Bond?
You may have heard people talk about "bonding out" of jail or prison. That term is often used to describe individuals who are released after getting a bail bond from a bondsman. A bail bond references a financial agreement between an individual and a bail bondsman that ensures a defendant will appear in court at a later date. The bondsman pays the full amount of the bail to the court, while you are responsible for paying only a fraction of the full cost of the bond.
Before signing up for a bail bond, it is important to find out if your case is eligible for one. Here are some steps you can take to learn whether a bondsman can help you or a loved one get bail bonds in your area.
1) Speak to a trusted bondsman
Contact a bondsman in the area where you or your friend or family member has been arrested. The bail bondsman will be able to review the details of the case and determine if it is eligible for a bond. For example, certain offenses are often ineligible for bail bonds, such as capital murder charges and other violent felony crimes. Additionally, sometimes an individual may have too many prior convictions to be eligible for bail. You may also struggle to bond out of jail or prison if you are in a federal facility.
2) Provide verifiable information
As part of the process, you will need to provide a variety of personal and financial information to the bondsman. Be prepared to show proof of income, employment, identity, residence, and other factors that could be used as collateral for the bond agreement. The bondsman may also ask about the defendant's legal history. This may include details about the current charges, such as when they occurred, the amount of bail set by the court, and any other relevant background information.
3) Follow court instructions
When you are granted a bail bond, the court will provide specific requirements that you must follow in order to remain free until your trial date. These typically include avoiding contact with individuals involved in the case and showing up for all scheduled hearings and meetings. If these conditions are not met, the judge presiding over your case may revoke the bond and remand you into custody.
By following these steps, you can determine if your case is eligible for a bail bond and find out what you need to do to get one. However, it is important to remember that every situation is different and there are no guarantees when it comes to obtaining a bond. It's best to work with an experienced bail bondsman when legal troubles arise.
For more info, contact a local bondsman.
