A Quick Look At Bail Bonding

by | Nov 27, 2017 | Lawyers

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The American bail bond system was modeled on England’s system. Ironically, the concept of bail was developed because jails were too small. Indeed, jail overcrowding remains a problem today. However, that does not mean a defendant automatically gets a bond.

Some Crimes Have Pre-Set Bonds

The judges in many jurisdictions pre-set bonds for several crimes. The only crimes that do not have pre-set bonds are murder and other serious felonies. In most instances, the accused needs a Bail Bondsman in Douglasvlle GA to get out. Consumers often misunderstand how the bail process works.

First, if the bail amount is $20,000, the bail bondsman pays the government $20,000. On the other hand, the accused’s representative pays the bondsman a fee for doing this. The fee is usually 10-to-15 percent of the bail amount. Further, the accused’s representative will not get this fee back.

Individuals can put up real property to satisfy the bail. However, the property must have enough equity to cover the full bail amount. Likewise, the property could be lost if the defendant fails to show up for court.

Filing A Bond Motion

If the judge does not set a bond at the first-appearance hearing, the defendant needs a lawyer to file a Motion For Bond. The judge listens to the lawyer’s arguments about why bail should be set. In most instances, the judge sets a bond with special circumstances.

For instance, the judge may issue a stay-away order in domestic violence cases. At that point, the defendant needs a Bail Bondsman in Douglasville GA.

Get Out Of Jail Free

Judges have the authority to release inmates on their own recognizance. In these cases, the defendant does not have to pay any bail. The favorable decision is based on a defendant’s reputation in the community. Further, judges are influenced by an individual’s lack of a criminal record and the fact they have a job.

Interestingly, many areas use algorithms to set bail. Information about the defendant is entered into a computer program and a score comes up. This score determines whether or not the defendant gets a bond. Also, the program suggests a bail amount. To learn more, visit us website.