How to Get Bail

Getting bail can be a confusing and frustrating process.  This page provides an understanding of the bail process.

What is Bail?

It’s a set amount of money paid by the accused to the to be released from custody.  The money guarantees the court you’ll appear on your trial date.  If you fail to appear in court for your trial, bail is forfeited to the court.

How Can I Get Bail?

Some bail sources accepted by the court are….

• Cash
• Property or Collateral
• Someone on your behalf
• Money Orders
• Bail Bondsman

The Bail Process

Your bail is set by the court.  The amount will depend on the following…..

• Seriousness of your crime
• Employment history
• Position in the community
• Past record
• Weight of evidence against you
• Ability to pay

If your crime is heinous or deemed extremely dangerous, you can be held without bail.  In misdemeanor cases bail can be automatically set.

The Bail Bondsman

A bail bondsman sells you a bail bond.  A bail bond acts as an insurance policy.  They’ll deposit the full amount of bail in court for you.  You must pay them 10% of the bail amount.  This acts as the insurance premium or fee.  And the premium is non-refundable.

After court proceedings are over, you’re excused or appear in court, the bail company receives its money back.  If you fail to appear bail is forfeited to the court.  The bail company will take legal action to get its money and collateral back from you.

WARNING!! Don’t commit a crime to raise your bail money.  It will be used against you in a court of law.  Use the above-mentioned sources.  If you can’t raise bail Eric can direct you to other possible sources accepted by the court.

You can find a bail bondsman near jails, courthouses or police stations.

Contact Eric with any further questions at 206.200.2479

Emergency Contact Line: 206.200.2479