Steps Needed to Obtain Bail Bonds
Getting arrested and being stuck in the county jail for several days is no fun, especially if you are innocent of the charges against you. The same is true if you have a family member who gets arrested and needs help. Whether it's for yourself or someone you love, it's important to know the steps to getting bail money when the need arises. There are three important steps to understand.
Get a Bail Hearing
While the criminal justice system is supposed to serve justice quickly, that isn't always what happens. Someone can get stuck in jail while waiting to get before a judge. In order to get a bail hearing as soon as possible, you need to hire a lawyer. A bail hearing is the first step to being able to obtain bail bonds. Once you are before a judge and your lawyer argues for a reasonable bail amount, you can work with a bail bondsman service to cover the amount set by the court.
Provide a Minimum Amount for Funds
While most states have always had minimums required for defendants to be able to secure bail bonds, that is no longer the case in every area. Some bail companies will not require any upfront collateral or will cover you for less than the standard ten percent. While some areas will offer this service, most bail companies are still required to or desire to require customers to put up at least ten percent of the total bail amount. This protects the bail company, and it ensures that you show up to court.
Request Reduced Bail Amount
In the event you are unable to negotiate the terms of your bail with a bail bondsman due to financial difficulties that arise, you may request that your attorney file for a reduced bail amount. It can be argued that you are not a flight risk due to your circumstances and that your financial situation requires a lower bail amount. Your lawyer can also argue that the current set bail amount is too high based on whatever you are charged with.
Hiring a good lawyer, getting bail set, and then working to get it reduced if you can't afford the minimum deposit are the steps to getting bail. Your lawyer can help you resolve any of the challenges you come against in getting bail. You may be required to borrow from family and friends to meet the minimum bail requirements if all else fails.
