Typically, what people understand about bail is that it is a specified amount of cash a defendant has to pay to get a release from jail. But it may not be as simple as it sounds here. Bail is a complicated process, which becomes even more complex if one has to pay a higher bond amount. Different states have different types of bond arrangements. Some can be typical of a particular state or jurisdiction, and some can be rarely granted. To help you learn about the variety of bails and bail bond loans and how to get them for your friend or family member, a brief on most of them is being shared below.
The different varieties of bonds
Citation release
This kind of bail is applicable in case of minor crimes, such as violation of traffic rules. The person does not have to go to jail or visit the police station. The arresting officer can order the person to attend a court hearing at a stipulated date.
Cash bond
Often, the defendant has to pay his bail in cash to get a release from jail after the arrest. If he is unable to make payment, someone on his behalf can take the initiative.
A court decides the amount of bond after a bail hearing. If the ordered amount is paid, the suspect can be set free from the custody.
Bail bond
Also referred to as surety bond or insurance, this type of bail comes in handy if the defendant does not have enough money to release himself from jail. But with the help of bondsman, he can secure a surety bond from him at the cost of 10 to 15% of the total value of the bail amount along with the promise to attend the court hearing. However, the defendant has to pledge collateral or something else as security in return for the bond. The person may also have to sign the terms and conditions in the agreement papers.
That said, it is one of the easiest ways to secure bail when you don’t have adequate cash to pay.
Recognizance bond
Much like the citation bond, this kind of bail can help you obtain release from the police custody on one condition that you will come for the court hearing on the specified date. You are set free from jail after signing the papers. You don’t have to pay any cash, but your absence in the court can cost you a fine.
Secured bond
It is also known as property bond. In this case, the person uses his property as collateral to pay his bail. It can be his home, land, commercial building or vacation home. But this process may take a longer time compared to a surety bond, which can be ready in an hour or so. If by chance, the defendant does not appear for the hearing, the court can confiscate his property to cover the bail.
So, these are some of the common types of bail that you are most likely to encounter. Since most of these bails involve financial risks, it’s vital that you consult experienced legal advisors, such as Castle Bail Bonds for assistance.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
