The arrest of a friend or family member can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. Unfortunately, it can also be financially challenging. Not only will an arrest lead to lawyer fees and court costs, but you will also need to find a way to get your loved one released from jail. Thankfully, there are options available if you do not have the sufficient funds. This guide will give you a few options, whether you want to pay cash for bail or secure a bond, after a loved one was arrested.
Cash Bail
The easiest option to bail your loved one out of jail is by paying cash. The total bail amount will depend on a few factors, though. For example, a higher bail amount will be required for a more severe crime. Basically, a first-time misdemeanor will have a lower bail than a more serious drug, burglary, or assault charge.
It is important to note that although it is considered cash bail, you may not be able to pay in actual cash. Contact the jail beforehand to determine if they require or accept cash, a check, cashier's check, or a credit card.
When the cash bail is paid, your loved one will need to avoid any further legal troubles. They also need to show up for their court date at the scheduled time. The bail money will then be returned to you or your loved one after all legal obligations are met.
Surety Bond
In some instances, you may not have the cash or financial means to pay the bail. You should still be able to get your loved one released from jail by securing a surety bond.
A surety bond is one of the most popular options to consider when you need to bail someone out of jail, but do not have the actual money to do so. On average, a deposit of 10 percent of the total bail amount is required and paid to a bail bond company such as ABC Bail Bonds. The bail bond company will use this deposit as a down payment and will pay the courts the full bail, releasing your loved one from jail.
While out on bail, your loved one must stay out of legal trouble and attend all court dates. If they "skip bail," meaning they do not show up for their scheduled court appearances, the bail bond company will keep the deposit and attempt to collect the remaining portion of the bail money they paid.
Although the bond company will attempt to find and collect the money from your loved one, you will also be responsible for the remaining money if your loved one skips bail.
Property Bond
A surety bond is efficient, but there are circumstances that may prevent you from securing one of these bonds. If, for instance, you do not have the money to put down as the deposit, a property bond may be your next best option for getting your loved one released from jail.
Instead of a deposit, a property bond allows you to use a piece of property as collateral for the bail bond. A deed to a home, land, or commercial building or even equity that you have in your home can all be used as collateral toward the property bond.
Other types of property that can be used as collateral include a vehicle, jewelry, or any item that could be sold, such as tools, electronics, instruments, equipment, and even antiques.
Remember that if secure a property bond, you are agreeing to forfeit it if your loved one does not show up to their scheduled court dates. Therefore, you should consider all of your options before agreeing to a property bond for your loved one.
Share24 January 2019
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