Common Questions and Mistakes Individuals Make During the Process
Arrested individuals don’t have to resign themselves to sitting in jail until their scheduled court appearance. Bail bonds and cash bonds allow a defendant to spend the time leading up to their court appearance with friends and family.
But which method is better: bail bonds or cash? Here’s a comparison of the options.
Cash Bond:
This option requires the defendant or someone the defendant knows to post the full amount of the set bond. Because the money is only returned after the defendant appears in court, the cash serves as a sort of collateral. In some cases, courts will deduct owed fees from the offered cash, so the entirety of the money might not be fully returned to the defendant. It’s important to get all the information you can about the conditions of a cash bond, so you can avoid costly surprises.
Bail Bond:
A bail bond requires a third party, known as a bail bondsman. Rather than the defendant or a friend or family member offering collateral to the court, the bail bondsman will provide the funds.
But what does the bail bondsman stand to gain from this agreement? The third party will charge a premium that is nonrefundable but much more affordable than the collateral that the court demands. This is why bail bonds are useful for anyone who can’t post the full amount – especially considering that money offered to the court might not be returned for weeks.
Common Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, but even common and minor errors can be costly when it comes to legal matters. Here are two mistakes to avoid:
- Proceeding Without Professional Help
Professional bail bond agents like those at Patriot Bail Bonds are more than just sources of needed funds. They’re knowledgeable individuals who can guide you through the legal process ahead. If unexpected issues pop up with regards to the bail conditions, you’ll have a reliable expert to consult. A bail bond agent can also use their years of experience to help speed up the process.
- Failing to Work Responsibly with a Bondsman
If you decide to go the bail bond route, it’s important that you work openly and honestly with the third party. This includes providing the correct information about the conditions of your arrest and bond. You’ll also need to cooperate with the court and appear at any scheduled events. Failing to do either of these things can deepen your financial and legal troubles. But earnest cooperation can help you stay out of jail and keep you in the company of friends and family.
