Keeping tabs on your loved ones can be difficult, especially when there’s something you don’t know about that might have a bearing on their well-being. Bail bonds are a helpful way to keep track of your loved ones while they’re in jail and are awaiting trial. It should also be noted that getting a bail bond can be more complicated than just filling out paperwork and waiting for approval. It requires some forethought and planning, so here are some things you should consider before requesting a bail bond.
What Is the Bail Amount?
The amount of bail you’re required to post before a trial starts depends on the type of crime your loved one is charged with. If your loved one is charged with a theft or fraud-related crime, for instance, they may be required to post a relatively small amount in order to have their trial moved forward. On the other hand, if they’re charged with murder or rape, they may have to make a much larger bail payment.
How Long Do I Have to Pay It Off?
The amount of time you’ll need to pay back your loved one’s bail bond depends on your loved one’s crime and their criminal record. If your loved one has an extensive criminal history and has been convicted of multiple violent crimes in the past, they may be required to pay back the full amount of their bond within 72 hours after being released from jail. In that case, you might want to consider requesting a bail bond over two weeks after they were released from jail so that it can be more affordable for you and less expensive for them.
How Will I Know When My Loved One Needs Money?
If you request a bail bond before your loved one goes before a judge for their arraignment hearing, then there are no penalties for failing to make payment within the specified time frame. However, if you submit paperwork after your loved one has been charged with a crime, then you’ll be held liable for the full amount of the bond.
What Happens if My Loved One Doesn’t Pay Their Bail?
If your loved one fails to make payment on their bail bond, then you may have to cover the full amount of their bond and pay it back yourself. If that’s not an option for you, then you can ask a judge to reduce the amount of bail your loved one is required to pay, but that may not be possible in some cases. The best thing to do is contact a bail bondsman before your loved one goes before a judge and ask what they would recommend as far as how much bail should be paid.
There are pros and cons for getting a bail bond. Make sure you understand the process necessary to get a bail bond for your loved one ahead of time.