If you or someone you know has been arrested, you may be looking for affordable bail bonds near you. However, this is not as simple as calling a bail bond agent and just getting their help. There are certain things you should know about bail bonds, such as the fact that there are different types of bonds; specific conditions of bail bonds that need to be met by the defendant; and risky scenarios that could cost you more than you’re able to handle. Knowing the facts is essential to protecting yourself and setting up the best scenario for your situation. Here’s what you need to know about bail bonds in Arlington, Texas.
What Is a Bail Bond?
To put it simply, a bail bond is a written and verbal agreement that is made between the defendant and a bail bond agent (surety) to grant a defendant release from jail. When the court sets a bail amount, it could cost the defendant thousands of dollars. If the defendant can’t afford to pay the bail amount upfront, they can seek the help of a bail bondsman by getting a bail bond. The defendant usually pays the bail bond agent a percentage of the bail amount and the bail bondsman covers the rest. The defendant must agree to show up to all their scheduled court dates and abide by the terms of their arrangement. After the trial, the bail bondsman agrees to refund the defendant’s money. However, if the defendant misses their court dates, they will not receive their money back and a warrant will be issued for their arrest.
The Bail Bond Process
When someone is arrested and booked, their bail amount is set, fingerprints are taken, and a background check is performed. They will be searched and their belongings will be documented and placed into inventory. Once this process is complete, they will be taken to their cell.
In most cases, someone close to the defendant is the one who contacts a bondsman to document the case. The bondsman will need information such as the defendant’s employment information, and living address. This information will help them decide whether they want to perform their services for the defendant. If they agree to take on the case, the bail bond agreement must be signed. The bondsman will post the bond at the jail where the defendant is being held, and they will be released. This process takes only a few hours after the criminal defendant has been arrested and booked.
Common Types of Bail Bonds
Personal Recognizance
This type of bond is most common for first-time offenders of nonviolent crimes. It provides the defendant with the opportunity to be released if they promise to return for their court hearings. Among the other pretrial diversion programs offered through the state, personal recognizance is the most common.
Cash Bond
Cash bonds are the smallest in Texas and are reserved for misdemeanors without any aggravating circumstances. In most cases, cash bonds are under $1,000. Some defendants can pay their entire bail amount on their own or can get financial help from a cosigner. The money is paid directly to the court and the defendant or cosigner gets most of their money back if the defendant does not violate the terms of their bail.
Surety Bond
When bail is too much for a defendant to pay, even with the help of the cosigner, a bail bond agent is often hired. There are many advantages of using a bail bond agent, but in this case, the main benefit is that the defendant can be released from jail by paying only a percentage of the total bail amount to the agent. The cosigner is also allowed to help with some or all the costs. The major risk with this type of bond is if the defendant does not appear for all their court appointments. If they forfeit the terms of their bail, the defendant and cosigner are responsible for paying the entire amount of bail.
Consequences of Violating Bond Conditions
Bond conditions can be stressful and complicated, but you must follow all the terms if you want to stay out of jail. These conditions are set by your bail bond agent and the court. One of the most obvious terms of a bail bond agreement is that the defendant shows up to all of their court dates on time. However, this is not the only requirement of a bail bond agreement. There are many other things that a defendant is required to do. These things may include the following:
- Admission into a drug education program;
- No traveling out of town until the court gives permission;
- No breaking any laws before your sentencing;
- Avoiding certain places or people; etc.
If they violate this condition, the bail bond money will not be returned, and the defendant will be under warrant for arrest. In some cases, you will need to surrender your collateral (ex. vehicle title or lien on home).
Choosing a Bail Bond Company
If you or someone you know needs help getting out of jail and posting bail, the facts mentioned above can give you an idea of what your options are. When you’re ready to contact a bail bondsman, give PCS Bail Bonds a call. We can help you if you need to post bail, or need advice about your situation. We provide 24-hour bail bonds for all kinds of charges including theft, drug possession, embezzlement, assault, and more. If you’re wondering about what collateral to post for your bail bonds, we can help. Our experienced agents can help you obtain a bond in a fraction of the time.
Contact us now by phone at 817-335-1655, at our e-mail, visit in-person, or fill out our bail bond request form. You can be confident that you’re working with experts who are dedicated to helping you.