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Frequently Asked Questions

What is bail?

Bail is a set amount of money that acts as insurance between the court and the person in jail. The purpose is to ensure that the defendant returns to court when necessary.

What is a bail bond hearing?

A bail bond hearing is a court appearance during which the defendant asks the judge to release them from police custody pending the outcome of a criminal case.

When does a bail bond hearing happen?

Each state has a set time in which a hearing must take place following an arrest. This time is usually two to three days following an arrest, not including weekends and holidays.

How is bail set?

The judge is responsible for setting bail. Most jails have standard bail schedules that specify the bail amount for common crimes. The person arrested can get out of jail quickly by paying the amount set forth in the bail schedule.

What if a defendant can’t afford bail?

The defendant can ask the judge to lower their bail amount. Depending on the state’s procedures, a request for a lower bail amount may be made in either a special bail hearing or when the defendant appears in court for arraignment.

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is a type of surety bond provided by a bond company that secures the release of a defendant from jail. Bail bonds can be used to guarantee the defendant appears for a court trial or that they pay their debt owed.

What type of collateral can be used for a bail bond?

Anything with large monetary value can be used as collateral including a house, additional cash, stocks, etc. All collateral must be returned by law when the case is complete.

What does a bail bond cost?

There is a fee of up to 10% down payment required. For example, if your bail is $3,500, you could pay the bond company $350 for their services. This fee is not refunded.

How long does it take to secure a bail bond?

If you contact us immediately following the bail hearing, we can usually arrange for a bond within 24 hours.

When does the bond end?

Once the defendant appears in court, the bond is terminated. If the defendant flees, the full amount of the bail will be due. The defendant will forfeit the amount of bail in addition to associated costs.