What’s the Difference Between Bail and Bail Bonds?
Difference Between Bail and Bail Bonds
The term “bail” is often used interchangeably with the word bond, but these two concepts have different meanings. Knowing what they are and how they differ can help you determine which option is best for your situation or the case of a loved one arrested on criminal charges.
Bail is a process that allows defendants to stay free from jail while waiting for their trial or other court proceedings to be resolved. Defendants who fail to appear for their scheduled appearances or violate other established conditions of bail may face serious consequences, including arrest and reincarceration. In some cases, it can take months for a defendant’s case to come to a final decision. This can be a devastating period of time for defendants and their families who are trying to work, care for children and continue with other daily obligations while they await justice.
Typically, those accused of crimes will be able to post bail so that they can keep their jobs and continue to take care of their families. Defendants can also often use bail to pay for their criminal defense. In some cases, however, the accused will not be able to afford the full amount of their bail. Those who cannot afford to pay the full amount can get the help of a bail bonds google reviews, whose services allow them to avoid spending time in jail until their case is resolved.
What’s the Difference Between Bail and Bail Bonds?
When someone is arrested, they will need to go through the process of arraignment where a judge or magistrate informs them of their charges and what sort of terms they may be able to set for bail. Depending on what sort of crime it is and whether or not the judge considers them a flight risk, they might be able to post bail immediately or it could be denied altogether.
If the judge does decide to release them on their own recognizance, it will typically be for low-level offenses. They will need to make a written promise to appear in court at future dates, sometimes called an O.R. or own recognizance release, and in most cases they will not have to pay any money for this kind of release.
The other way to be released from jail is with a bail bond, which requires an indemnitor, who can either be the defendant themselves or a third party such as a family member or friend. This person agrees to pay the entire amount of the bond if the defendant fails to appear at their court date or otherwise violates the terms of their bail agreement. They will also need to put up some form of collateral with the bail bondsman, which can be returned once the defendant is exonerated. For those accused of federal crimes, a different type of bail is required. It is generally a little higher and there are more requirements for this kind of bond. If you need more information about what this means or how to secure a federal bail bond, contact our team at Bob Barry Bail Bonds.