You would think paying bail would be a simple process. But in real life there is a lot that goes into bail. From a rough guide on how bail is set, to how to pay bail, bail bonds, are all just a few things you should know about how bail works. This is important for anyone facing some type of arrest, or has a family member or loved one dealing with something similar.
First thing to know about bail is its definition. Bail is “the temporary release of a prisoner in exchange for security given for the prisoner’s appearance at a later hearing.” Bail is not used as a punishment, it is used as a way to make sure the defendant comes back to court. Bail is used to keep the jail population smaller, and keeps up the appearance of “innocent until proven guilty”. Bail can issued and met throughout the criminal justice process. So if someone is arrested and there are charges filed, the person arrested will remain in custody until released on bail, or a court rules a judgement. Small crimes people will normally be processed and then given a notice to return to court on a specific day. For more serious crimes a bail hearing will be held. Some laws depending on the state have specific prices already set for the crime. For example bail for burglary may be $5,000 across the board in your state. The states have a lot of power when it comes to setting bails, and the rules within and around the bail process.
At a bail hearing a judge will decide the amount of bail, or even denying bail. They weigh a number of options such as flight risk. If someone has a high chance of running away on bail, it may be set higher, or not given at all. Family obligations and work are also considered. If not being let out on bail, or a high bail price may weigh heavy on the defendant or his family the judge takes that into consideration. Also past criminal history is something that is considered. Especially if the defendant has a history of missing court. The seriousness of the crime, and the public safety are other considerations by the judge. These all affect how much or how little the bail will be set at. If you can’t afford the bail, using a local bail bond services Charlotte nc can help at a cost.
Bail isn’t only about the money though. There are such things as bail conditions, which other responsibilities that come along with being let off on bail. Generally bail conditions are placed to match the crime. Some examples of these bail conditions are travel restrictions, drug tests, firearm restrictions, and employment.
Understanding bail can be a difficult thing to add onto an already stressful situation. When things of this nature happen to a family member or loved one, getting out of the situation is the pressing issue. Having an understanding of the bail process and what to expect can help ease some things in such a trying time.
