Getting arrested is something that most people try to avoid at all costs. However, sometimes it happens. If you are arrested, often the first thing that is on your mind is how to get out of jail. Getting out of jail after you have been arrested can be a hassle. In most cases, posting bail will allow you to get out of jail and to get back to your daily routine while you await your court date. If you have been arrested and need to post bail, here are three things that you should know.
You May Be Able to Avoid Bail
The first thing that you should be aware of after being arrested is that it is possible to get out of jail without needing to post bail. When you are released on your own recognizance, you do not have to pay bail in order to get out of jail. However, if you are released in this manner and you do not attend your next court date, you are subject to being arrested immediately. When deciding whether or not to release you on your own recognizance, the judge will consider the crime you are charged with, your previous criminal record, and whether or not you are a danger to the public.
Ways To Pay Bail
If you are unable to be released on your own recognizance, you will have to pay the bail amount set by the judge. The bail amount is set by the judge and can vary greatly depending your situation. When you post bail, it is returned to you in full after the future court proceedings have come to an end. There are a variety of ways that you can post bail, including paying with cash or check, using a bond, or signing over any property that you may have.
Bail Bonds Can Help
One issue that many run into is that they are unable to meet the bail amount set by the judge. This is where bail bonds come in. These bonds are available from a bail bondsman and are worth the entire cost of the bail. The purchase price of the bail bond for you is around 10 percent of the total cost of the bail, and you do not get that back after your court date. Additional collateral, such as your vehicle or home, is also often needed in order to get a bail bond. If you fail to show up, the bail bondsman can then seize the collateral that you put up.
Getting arrested can make life difficult. Posting bail as soon as possible is a necessity for many. You may be able to be released on your own recognizance. If you are not, then you will need to pay the bail amount with your own funds or sign over property. If you do not have the ability to pay your bail yourself, a bail bond may be able to help.
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