When a Bond Is Revoked

The most common option is to use a bail bondsman. This means that you will pay the bondsman 10% of the total bail amount, and they will post the full amount with the court. The advantage of using a bondsman is that you only have to come up with 10% of the bail amount, but the downside is that the 10% payment is non-refundable and cannot be applied to court costs, fees, or fines. Additionally, if the defendant “runs”, then the cosigner is responsible for the entire bail amount.

Another option is to post bond directly with the court. This means that you will pay the full amount of the bail, but you will get the money back at the end of the case. The disadvantage of this option is that you have to come up with the full amount of the bond, which can be a significant amount of money. Alternatively, you can request a signature bond, which is essentially a “promise to appear” for free.

Finally, there is the option of an Own Recognizance (OR) release. This is not used often, but here 10% is paid to the court (not a bondsman), and that 10% is refundable at the end of the case. This option is only available to those who have a low flight risk and no prior criminal record.

If you are considering bailing someone out of jail, it is important to understand the pros and cons of each option and to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that you are making the best decision for your situation.