When It's Up To You: Acting Alone And Making Bail
There are limited ways of getting out of jail and most people end up using bail to do so. Read on to find out what might happen if you don't want to involve others in your quest to be released from jail.
You May Not Need Bail
Not all of those arrested need to post bail. If you are a first-time offender or the crime is a misdemeanor and relatively minor, you can be released on your own recognizance. With that way of being free, you still have to abide by all the usual bail rules and show up to your future court dates but you don't need to come up with any money to be released from jail. Usually, this happens shortly after the arrest or it might occur at the arraignment (your first court appearance).
When Bail is Offered
If you have been accused of a felony, you probably won't be offered bail at the arraignment. You could still convince the judge to release you but it might take a lawyer's help to do so and the bail is likely to be very high. In almost all cases, however, bail is offered and you would be wise to take that route. It can take months for your case to come up on the court calendar and jail is a lonely, dirty, and dangerous place to stay in the meantime. With bail, you can go back to your home, your family, your job, and get started on planning your defense.
Doing It Yourself
Being in jail presents an embarrassing predicament and it's no wonder that some want to keep things on the down-low. Fortunately, there are ways to handle things yourself and still attain freedom. If you happen to have enough funds (in cash) with you at the time of the arrest, you can just pay what you owe. Bail, however, is often hundreds or thousands of dollars and few have the money on them. You can, however, make arrangements for a third-party to bail you out using a bail bond.
What is a Bail Bond?
Bail can be paid directly to the jail and that money is refundable when your case is complete. Bail bonds, on the other hand, can be purchased for a mere percentage of your full bail amount and that money is not refundable. The chances of getting a bail bond depend on the seriousness of the crime and your personal standing. You can usually phone a bail bonding company from jail and ask them about a bond. The bond, if issued, guarantees the court that you will return to later face charges in court. You can pay a bail bond in cash or using a credit card or property (a vehicle title or a property deed).
Contact a friendly bonding agent near the jail for personalized and quick service. Be out of jail before damage is done to your job, your reputation, or your relationships.
