When a loved one or a friend is in jail it can be a stressful time and a time that you need information and you need that information to be correct. We hope that the below information will help you understand the bonding process.
Felony Charges> If a person is charged with a felony unless there is a pre set bond the accused will have to wait in jail until they see a Judge. This time usually happens within 48hrs of arrest.
Misedmenor Charges> These usually already have a pre-set bond amount. However in some counties charges such as Domestic Battery or anything that involves a “victim” could be held for a first appearance. This is when they are held to see a judge within 48 hours of arrest. It is important to know that weekends and holidays do not count towards this time.
Now let’s say the accused has completed the above process and you want to help get them out. There are two ways if #bond is needed.
One way is you can pay the full #bond amount to the county jail. Let’s say the bond is set at $1000.o0> this means that you can take $1000.00 cash or cashiers check down to the jail. If you use cash be sure that it is exact amount, jails do not make change. Also, be sure that your get proof of payment. If you choose the method the funds will be held until the accused goes to court. If the accused is found guilty on any of the charges??? The $1000.oo in this example will be used towards this fines. If found not-guilty to any or all charges the funds will be returned usually after the 1st of the following month. In some cases there is “court cost” which will be discussed with you via the clerk of court.
Now if you choose to use a professional bail bondsman? The cost for this is 10% rounded up to the nearest $5.00 mark plus $60.00 in state fees. The bonding company then becomes responsible to make sure their clients appear for each and every court date until completion.
*Example* $1000.00 bond > 10% is $100.00 + $60.00 in fees = $160.00 HOWEVER all jail charge a $20.00 booking fee and some charge a $50.00 warrant fee if arrested on a warrant or felony. The bondsman you hire should know the proper cost.
Lastly, be sure to use a bonding company that knows the information that you need. Ask questions and be sure that you are fully confident in their abilities to help you and your family navigate the judicial system.
Hope this information helps and as always you can always call or text us if you ever have questions about bail bonds or would like to hire us!!
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