Understanding Pre-Trial Conditions And Your Bail

In some states, the authorities will release you from jail without meeting pre-trial conditions, also known as a money-only bail. In other states, you must meet specific requirements for the judge to release you on bail. 

Why You Must Meet Pre-Trial Conditions

Bail conditions exist in some states because the judge is concerned about whether you will return to court to attend all required hearings and the eventual trial. The state authorities also want to ensure that the community remains safe.

Work Requirements

The judge might expect you to continue working if you are already employed. If you do not have a job, the judge might expect you to find one. They might also impose a curfew and restrict activities that aren't directly related to your employment or education. The judge might also impose travel restrictions. The judge might also instruct you to avoid a particular individual or location.

Complying with the Law

You must obey all laws. In particular, the judge might restrict you from consuming alcohol and possessing firearms. If you do not follow the bail conditions, your bail might be revoked.

How to Afford Bail

You might be concerned about your ability to afford bail if you do not have enough cash. If so, one option is to contact a friend or family member and ask them to contact a bail bond service. 

How a Bail Bond Service Works

The purpose of a bail bond service, also known as a surety bond, is to allow you to post bail without having the cash available. While you must pay a fee and a percentage of the bail amount, you will not have to come up with the whole amount.

For example, if the bail amount is $20,000, the bail bond agent would request that you pay $2,000 and then post the $20,000 required to bail you out of jail. You may also need to provide collateral to secure the bond, which can include the following:

• The deed to your home
• Your car title
• Jewelry
• Artwork
• Anything else of value

The collateral will be returned to you if the court is not forced to forfeit the bond. The bond is forfeited if you fail to show up to court. However, if you have a valid excuse, you may be able to have your trial rescheduled. If the bail is not forfeited, the bail bond service will return the collateral.

Contact a company like Bail House Bail Bonds to learn more.

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