ARREST AND BAIL

When someone is arrested the courts generally allow them to post a bail bond in order to get out of jail. This allows them to resume their day-to-day activities while awaiting mandated court appearances.  This further allows them to more easily consult with a criminal defense attorney, to return to work, and to return to a safe space surrounded by people who care for them until the case against them is resolved.

At the same time, not everyone who wishes to bail out of jail is afforded that option.  The court’s primary responsibility is to keep the public safe from harm.  That means if a person has been charged with an extremely violent act, has a history of prior arrest, and/or is considered to be a threat to society; a judge may deem that particular defendant ineligible for bail.  In this instance the defendant will be “remanded” to jail until his or her trial.

If a person is permitted to post bail, it becomes the responsibility of the bail bondsman to ensure the defendant appears at future court proceedings related to the charges filed against them.  If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bondman will revoke the bond and send the defendant back to jail.

FINDING A BAIL BONDSMAN

Should you find yourself in a position where you need to bail bondsman, it is helpful if you can gather some information before making the initial call.  It's best if you can provide the bail bonds company with the full name of the defendant, date of birth, the name of the jail they’ve been taken to and the bail amount. If the person taken into custody is an undocumented resident, that information will also be helpful. A professional bondsman will be able to help, even if you don't have this information, so do not delay calling to initiate the process.

In the state of California, bail bonds cost 10% of the total bail amount. This means if a defendant’s bail has been set at $50,000, you can expect to the bail bond will cost $5,000.  In some instances, 8% bonds are available. Be sure to ask the bail bondsman you’re working with if you are eligible for this type of discount.

The process of bail bonds can be a bit intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.  Be sure to work with an expert bail bondsman with whom you feel comfortable, who is able to answer your bail questions, and whom you feel is best suited to help get your friend or family member out of jail fast.