The term “posting bail” or being “bailed out,” is common enough most people know its meaning. Someone has offered collateral for a friend or loved one to be released from jail is the general understanding. A cash amount that the judge sets, or even property, or a pink slip for a vehicle can all serve as collateral. But many people do not where that bail money goes and we at Ajua Bail Bonds would like to share more information concerning this matter.
How is Bail Amount Determined?
You’re going to need to post bail to get out of prison until your next court date should you find you or a loved one is in the unfortunate situation of being arrested. The amount of bail that is set by the judge can be offered as collateral. Depending on the seriousness of your crime, if the judge deems you a flight risk, your criminal history, and if the judge feels you are a danger to the community will dictate your bail amount. As a promise that you will show up to all of your future scheduled court dates, no matter how much your bail, as well as assurance you will not flee the local area.
How Does Bail Work?
You will need to find a bail bondsman that can post the bail for you if you are not able to pay the amount that the judge sets, where you pay the bail bond company 10% of what the bail amount was. For instance, if your bail was set at $10,000, the bail bond company will charge $1,000 for their services. Someone will need to become an indemnitor as you search for a bail bondsman. In the event that the defendant fails to make their court appearances, the indemnitor is the person who promises to pay the full amount of the bond back to the bondsman. A judge may release you on your own recognizance instead of bail in some instances. Essentially, if it is the honor system as to which you responsibly attend all of your hearings; this only is applicable for certain crimes and cases.
Is Bail Money Returned?
The money that the bondsman put up for your release is held by the courts after bail has been posted. Until all of the defendant’s court dates have been completed, the courts hold the specified amount of money. The courts will then return the money back to the party that posted the full bail amount after the completion of all of the court proceedings. The bail amount is kept by the courts should the defendant decide to not attend their court appearances. Using a formula in the California Penal Code, the courts disperse the forfeited bail amount to the state, cities, and county.
Bail Bond Services & More in Selma & Fresno County, Atwater & Merced, Visalia & Tulare, Hanford & Kings, Madera County and the Central Valley of California
When you need to post bail for yourself or a loved one, Ajua Bail Bonds is readily available to assist. We know this is a stressful time and can offer answers to all of your questions as we quickly work on getting your bail posted and you or your loved one, out of jail. Contact us to learn more!
