How Much Does it Cost to Get out of Jail?
Friday, September 21, 2018, 6:00 PM | Leave Comment
If you or someone you know lands in jail, there is often a way to be let out of jail. However, this way can often be costly.
Here are four facts that you should know about getting out of jail, including understanding how bail and bail bonds work.
In general, it will be up to a judge to determine bail and to decide whether or not it is safe to let someone out of jail.
-
How Does the Eight Amendment Help?
The eighth amendment to the constitution covers several areas that have to do with prisoners in the United States. It requires that no cruel or unusual punishment be used in prison. More importantly in many cases, it states that excessive bails and fines should not be imposed by judges. Bail should only be used by the judge as a way to ensure that you or any other individual shows up at the appointed court date.
-
How is Bail Set?
Bail is mainly determined by the extent of the criminal act. Once again, it is determined by a judge who looks at how serious or violent the crime was, whether the crime was a felony or a misdemeanor and what the arrest report states. Some communities follow a simple fee schedule for certain crimes while other judges use a more complex algorithm to determine an appropriate bail amount.
-
What Are Bail Bonds?
Once bail has been set, you may be able to post bail to get out of jail until your court date. If you pay in cash, you must pay the entire fee. However, if you do not have the full amount in cash, you can purchase a bail bond from a bail bond agent, which generally costs 10 percent of the amount of bail. Keep in mind that the amount that you put into a bail bond cannot be refunded to you even if you do show up in court.
-
How Can You Be Released on Your Own Recognizance?
Being released on your recognizance is basically a promise from you that you will appear in court as scheduled. You can ask for this as soon as you are in front of a judge. Many variables go into the judge’s determination of whether this is an option for you. He or she may look at whether you have family in the community, what your criminal history is and what your character in the community is, such as whether you hold down a job there.
Getting out of jail as quickly as possible is usually the first thing on anyone’s mind after landing in jail. By following the rules, showing up for court dates and understanding the system, you can usually get your bail back whether or not you have been found guilty. Of course, by contacting a criminal defense attorney, you will get the best advice for your particular situation.
Throw us a like at Facebook.com/doable.financeAuthor BIO
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter and Facebook.
