Bail Bonds: The 4 Common Types
Once arraigned in court, a bail amount will be set. The amount will depend on your criminal history, current criminal charges, and whether you are a flight risk. Here are four common types of bail bonds.
Personal Recognizance (PR) Bond
This type of bond means the judge lets the defendant out on their accord. Therefore, the bail money isn't necessary. PR Bonds are common for first-time defendants accused of committing non-violent crimes. They are rare and only apply in low-risk cases.
When the judge grants you the personal recognizance bond, and you fail to follow through with the court orders, the judge might order your arrest. Like other bonds, you will need to attend all the court sessions after your release.
Cash Bail
It is the most common type of bail bond where you will need to post the entire bail amount up front. You can pay in cash, using a credit card, or a banker's cheque. The amount depends on the crime you are accused of. It can be in thousands, tens, or hundreds of thousands. No one anticipates getting arrested. Thus, most people don't have the amount to pay bonds. However, you can hire a bondsman.
Cash bail offers a fast way out of jail, especially when you have liquid money. Once you post bail, you should appear on the agreed court dates to avoid losing your money. After completing your case, the court will return your money.
Collateral Bail
Instead of paying bail in cash, you can pay bail using a property. You can offer your house, land, or vehicles as collateral for your loan. Like using cash, the property serving as collateral will also be returned after settling the case. Also known as a property bond, collateral bail is a suitable option when you don't have liquid money.
Unlike cash bail, which is a fast option out of jail, collateral bail could take longer. This is because the courts will need to search, inspect, and value the property. It also involves a lot of paperwork, which can delay the process.
Bail Bondsman
You also have the option to hire a bail bondsman. Contact them and have them pay your bond. They charge a fee, ordinarily 10% to 15% of your total bail amount. Bond agencies post your bail, hoping that you will gather enough money to repay them soon. Always hire a 24/7 bail bond service provider to ensure timely help if you ever get arrested. A company like All Star Bail Bonds has more information.
Share