Do you know what to do if you or a loved one gets arrested? The first thing on your mind should be getting out of jail. You want to avoid spending time in jail as they are at full capacity.
There’s a get out of jail card. You can pay bail, or be bonded out of jail.
These terms are often used interchangeably, but you can’t confuse them. You must know the difference between bail vs. bond. Knowing the difference can save you a lot of trouble.
Read this article to learn more about these two terms.
What Is Bail
At some point after being arrested, you’ll see a judge. Your judge will set a bail amount during your first court appearance. This might be during a bail hearing or at an arraignment.
The judge will follow a bail schedule. The judge has the power to raise or lower the standard bail. This will depend on different factors pertinent to your case.
You don’t need to have a lawyer present to arrange for bail. You can post bail yourself or have friends or family post it on your behalf.
You must use cash to post bail as it serves as a secured form of payment. You’ll make this payment to the court. The amount you pay will grant your release until the trial date.
It’s in your best interest to show up for the hearing. The court will return the bail money and you’ll avoid further legal issues.
What Is a Bond
Let’s say you get arrested. You go in front of the judge and get a high bail. You can’t afford to pay for it, so what do you do?
This is where a bail bonds company comes in. The company will vouch for you and bond you out of jail. A bail bondsman will pay the money and make sure you appear for your court date.
If you decide to go this route, you’ll have to put up a small percentage of the total bail amount down. The company will not refund this premium cost, thus this is considered an earned premium to the bondsman upon the release of the defendant.
This is an option that you should consider if you aren’t able to pay for bail. Take advantage of the low rate to help you secure your freedom.
Understand the Difference Between Bail vs. Bond
If you find yourself in jail, you must act fast. There’s no way you want to spend more time in jail than you need to.
After you get your bail set, you can pay it yourself or have someone else pay it. If you don’t have the cash, you should contact a bail bonds company.
Want to learn more about the difference between bail vs. bond? Contact us now to speak with one of our bail bonds agents. We offer bail bonds 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
