How to Bail Someone Out of Jail
Jail is a scary prospect. In some situations, it ultimately ends up being nothing more than a minor setback, but in plenty of scenarios, extended time in jail can ruin a person’s life. The way our justice system works, if someone is in jail, they won’t be released until the courts settle the case or they post bail. If you’re trying to get someone out of jail, you’ll need to know how to post bail. The process is pretty simple, but it is important to understand your options so that you can make the best possible decisions.
Wait for the Bail to Be Set
The first step is not the most fun, but there is not much you can do until the courts set bail. That determination will be up to the judge, and it’s not uncommon to have to wait for the hearing. It is important for the defendant to have representation at this point to help prevent bail from being outrageous. Regardless, waiting is the first part.
Paying Bail
Once the bail is formally set, it can be paid to get the defendant released. There are a few different ways to go about paying, but the courts have to receive the money in full before they will release the defendant. You can usually pay online or over the phone. You can also go in person to the jail bond desk.
As for how you finance bail, that usually comes in one of three ways.
Pay in Full
When this option is available, it’s usually a good way to go. If you can pay the bail in full on your own, this will secure release. As long as the defendant makes their court dates, you’ll be completely refunded. If this is a financially viable option and you have absolute confidence in the defendant showing up for court, this is the best route.
Use Collateral
If you don’t have enough cash, you can still potentially post bail. Depending on the amount set, you can use a house, car, or other piece of personal property as collateral for the bail. The courts will have to approve this method, and there is no guarantee that they’ll accept your collateral. Even if they do, you’ll typically need to provide collateral that is worth significantly more than the bail itself.
Despite the complications and challenges, this is a viable way to post bail, and the rule of returns still applies. As long as the defendant makes their appearances, you get to keep whatever you put up as collateral.
Get a Bond
When money is not available, the standard route to secure bail is to go through a bond agent. This is kind of like getting a loan for bail but with huge caveats. With a bail bond, you will be responsible for a flat fee. It’s usually a percentage of the set bail. The bond agent will pay the courts the full amount for release. As long as the defendant makes the dates, the bond agent gets their refund. Still, they will keep the fee that they charge to you.
If the defendant misses a court appearance, the bond agent will not get their cash back, and that means that you and the defendant will be liable for that money to the bond agent.
To simplify, a bond is a way to get someone out of jail. You work with a professional who knows the system. You can post bail with much less money than what the courts require, but you don’t get a refund.
Bail Bonds in Arlington, Dallas, and Fort Worth
If you need to get someone out of jail and you need help, Just Bail Bonds is here for you. Contact us online or call us at 817-303-3400 to discuss your options. We’ll help you find the means to get your loved one out of jail so they can work on their defense and try to move forward with their life.