When someone you know is arrested and calls you from jail, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. However, you can arm yourself with knowledge of different scenarios for bailing someone out and what will be required of you if the event occurs. Follow along for Different methods of bailing someone out of jail in this step-by-step guide.
Cash Bail
Cash bail is probably the one heard of and used most frequently. This is when the judge or jail sets a bail amount, or there is a predetermined amount set based on the crime committed. The entire amount must be paid in full before the person in jail is released.
After release, the accused must show up for their court date, or the entire cash bail amount may be revoked. In some instances, the cash bail is applied to fines and costs or completely returned if the defendant is found innocent.
Bail Bondsman
A bail bondsman is another common way to get someone out of jail. First, you must contact a bondsman willing to provide the court with a surety bond that guarantees the defendant will appear in court. Often, the bail bondsman will require a co-signer or collateral on the bond so that they can still get their money back if the defendant defaults. Typically, the bail bonds company charges a fee of 10-15% of the bond, which is non-refundable. That’s their fee for providing the service they do.
Own Recognizance
Finally, the option that most hope for is their own recognizance bail option. In this case, the defendant is released without any requirement for money. The only expectation is to follow through on their promise to appear in court when the day comes. This is something that is only done by a judge’s discretion. Frequently, the only individuals granted personal recognition bonds have little to no criminal history, strong ties with the community, and minimal risk that they will re-offend or fall out of compliance with what the courts put in place as part of their bond orders.
Requirements
While the requirements for bailing someone out of jail vary a bit depending on the method, there are a few requirements that should be expected regardless of what option for bonding out is given:
Personal ID for verification.
Some sort of financial capacity or ability to pay cash to secure the bond.
Security with collateral if using a bail bondsman or a willing co-signer.
Further court compliance and agreement to follow all bond orders, including appearing for all hearings.
Documentation that may include deeds, contracts, or the legal agreements dependent on the case.
It might make you feel helpless if you ever get the dreaded call that someone you care about needs to be bailed out of jail. Now that you know all the different methods and requirements for meeting the facility’s demands, such as holding your friend or family member, you can put your mind at ease. If the time ever comes, follow these steps, and you shouldn’t have any issues bailing someone out of jail.
