Did you know that more than half a million people are in a local jail at any given time? Most of these people have not yet been to court. The ability to go home and plan a defense depends on the person’s access to money.
People who have more money on hand can get out of jail quicker and can start coordinating their legal strategy. Others are left to coordinate from behind bars. This is just one example of wealth inequality in the legal system that bail bondsmen can help with.
Bail vs. bond are two terms thrown around, but what is the difference? You might think they are the same thing, but minute differences separate them.
Read on to learn the difference between bail and bond and which is right for your case!
What Is Bail?
Bail is the money that a defendant must pay to be released from jail. The amount is determined during a bail hearing, where the judge assesses and considers various factors.
If the defendant is likely to commit further crimes or run away, they likely won’t be eligible for bail. Alternatively, they might have a very high bail amount. On the other hand, defendants without a criminal history and with strong ties to the community might have more lenient bail sentences.
Once the court determines the bail amount, the defendant can post bail and is free to leave jail and go home. They’re free from police custody until their court date. After the court date, if the defendant is cleared of wrongdoing, the bail money is returned.
What Is Bond?
Bonds are a guarantee to pay bail and require a third party to certify the money. The third party essentially agrees that if the defendant does not show up in court or breaks the rules of their release, they will pay the bail.
To post a bond, you’ll typically need a bail bonds agent. They will act as the third party that will be responsible for the money and makes sure you appear in court.
A bond can also be a document that offers the defendant’s property as bail. If you don’t show up to court, your property is now forfeited to the government. Likewise, if you don’t show up to court or if you break the rules of your release, the bail bonds services will have to pay the court the full amount.
In short, a bond is a financial guarantee that the defendant will follow the rules of their release until their appointed court date.
Now You Understand Bail Vs. Bond
Although many people confuse the terms bail and bond, they are not the same thing! This article should have helped you understand the difference between bail vs. bond so you can make the right decision for your case.
If you’re looking for a bondsman, look no further than A Be Out Bail Bonding. Our experienced agents have seen it all before, and we can help get you out within 24 hours so you can start working on your defense. Contact us for more information about our services.