One of the most pressing questions a person has after an arrest is how they’re going to get out of jail while their case moves through the criminal justice system. Some people don’t have to worry too much because they’re released on their own recognizance. Others will have to post bail in order to secure their release.
When you have to post bail, you may need to work with a bondsman. You do have some protections that are set by the Eighth Amendment. Bail can’t be a way to punish someone who’s been arrested. It also can’t be a way for the government to raise money. It is purely designed to secure the defendant’s appearance at their upcoming trial.
How do you post bail?
There are two ways that you can post bail. The first is to put up cash or property that’s equal to the bail amount the court set. The second is to work with a bondsman, who will provide the court with an assurance that you’ll be in court. Using a bail bondsman is the least expensive of the two over the short term because you only put up a percentage of the bail amount – but it costs more in the end.
If you appear for all your hearings until the case is resolved, you can get your property or money returned to you if you handed the bail directly to the court. You won’t see a refund on what you pay to a bail bondsman.
It’s sometimes necessary to seek a bail reduction. You should consider this carefully but don’t neglect to work on your criminal defense strategy. Some defense options might have time limits so be sure to look into what’s possible based on the circumstances of your case. Working with someone who’s familiar with the court system where your case is being heard may be beneficial.