5 Common Questions about Bail
For many, bail seems like a legal way to buy your way out of jail. While this is basically true, the bail process is a bit more complicated than that. Here are five questions that people often ask about bail:
1. What is bail?
When most people are charged with a crime, they’re assigned a bail amount during a hearing. Once the accused individual posts bail, he is released from jail, provided that he shows up at all future court dates.
2. How is bail determined?
Bail is determined by a number of factors, including the severity of the crime, prior convictions, and state law. If the accused is determined to be too high of a flight risk or if the crime is especially serious, bail may not be granted at all.
3. What is a bail bond?
Since bail for felonies is often tens of thousands of dollars, most people can’t afford to post bail without going bankrupt. That’s where bail bonds come in. Once you take out a bail bond, you only have to pay 10% of the bail—the bail bond agency takes care of the rest.
4. Do I get my bail money back?
When you pay the bond yourself, you almost always get the money back after acquittal or conviction. However, you will not get back the 10% you pay to a bail bondsman. Still, if you can’t afford bail, a bondsman is the way to go.
5. What happens when you skip out on bail?
Once you post bail, you are free to go—a very tempting prospect for some people. However, if you fail to show up for your court date or skip town, you will be hunted down by a bounty hunter and brought back to face even harsher charges.
If you need help posting bail in the San Diego area, contact King Stahlman Bail Bonds. It could be months until your trial. During such a difficult time, you shouldn’t let a lack of funds stop you from seeing your family. Give us a call today at (619) 232-7127 to get started.
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