Types of Bail Bonds

There are numerous types of bail bonds available to get people out of jail when they are accused of a crime and need to post bail quickly and affordably. The level of the bond and the availability of bail depend greatly on your individual circumstances, but each bond has a specific purpose. Most courts have a bond schedule posted at each jail that sets the bond upon arrest. The defendants place of residence and charges are taken into consideration in most cases. Bond reductions are handled by the court and usually require the services of a lawyer.

FEDERAL BONDS

These bonds are used when a person is accused of a federal crime. Federal bonds are usually more expensive than other crimes, so having a good bail bondsman can make a huge difference and save you a lot of money.

CASH BONDS

Some people choose to simply pay cash for their bail, but this can use up important money that can be better used for other immediate purposes. Cash bonds can not be posted by a bail agent. Cash bonds are returned after any court costs and attorney fees are deducted.

SURETY BONDS

Surety bail bonds involve a contract with a bail agent that can require the signature of a family member or close friend that will sign a promissory note that will not become a debt unless the defendant fails to appear in court and has not been surrendered prior to a forfeiture of the sureties bond. Bonds of this type usually require some form of collateral for the bail amount.