How Bail Works

When an individual is arrested for a crime, typically that person will be taken to a local law enforcement station for booking, prior to incarceration in a station lock-up or county jail. Once arrested and booked, the defendant has several options for release pending the conclusion of his or her case.

The bail system is designed to guarantee the appearance of a criminal defendant in court at the time the judge directs.

Who Sets Bail Amount?

A judge or magistrate normally sets the Bail amount for a particular case according to a county Bail Schedule and the particulars of a case. The Bail Schedule itself is usually set annually by a majority vote of superior, municipal, and other judges.

In setting or denying bail, the judge or magistrate's first concern is the protection of the public, followed by the seriousness of the offense and previous criminal record. Further, the Judge must be convinced that no part of the Bail was feloniously obtained.

Release Options

The five basic release options available to an arrestee are cash bail, surety bond, property bond, release on his or her own recognizance, and release on citation.

Our Role In Helping You:

Bail Bond Agencies are normally required by law to collect 10% of the Bail set as a Premium. You will have to pay this amount or arrange financing with us to assemble the funds. Cash, credit cards, and checks are just some of the ways in which we help our clients assemble the funds needed.

The Bail Bond Agency guarantees the full amount of the Bail to the Court as guarantee that the person will appear. You may be required to guarantee that appearance by providing collateral for the entire bond amount. Therefore, try to know what collateral property you could provide (e.g. House, Car, Boat, or other property of value).

Please contact us for more information.