Bail is a deposit that helps the accused get released from jail until his hearing in court. This refundable deposit acts as the collateral to best ensure that the accused returns to court for the hearing. Not all defendants are eligible to get bail. Bail eligibility may depend on factors like jurisdiction, kind of crime, and chances of the accused running away. Once the accused appears in court for the trial, the bail money is refunded to him by the court. If the accused fails to appear in court for the hearing, the court has the right to keep the collateral or deposit. Thereafter, the court will issue a warrant for arresting the absconding defendant.
Understanding Why Cash Bail Is Controversial
Many critics on Forbes believe that money bailing in the U.S.A. is criminalizing poverty, wasting public resources, and destroying lives while not succeeding in making us safer. Many cities and states across the nation are minimizing the use of cash or money bail to the extent possible. Some states, like California, have made it unconstitutional to set a bail amount the accused cannot afford. Cash bail seems to be a controversial topic since money bail can trigger an unfair two-tiered justice system. One system is for the affluent class, and the other is for the underprivileged or not-so-affluent defendants. The money bail system may impact low-income accused, who find it difficult to arrange the bail amount. Often in such a scenario, a poor defendant may be compelled to spend months or years awaiting trial in jail, which may adversely impact their mental health and life.
What do you mean by a bail bondsman?
A bail bondsman is an experienced professional responsible for posting bail on your behalf if you are a defendant. Bail bondsmen generally charge a fraction of the set bail amount. They will need collateral before posting bail. It can be as cash, property, or investments. In case, you do not appear for your hearing in court on the pre-determined date, a bail bondsman will have to pay the money to the court. Moreover, the bail bond contract specifies that the bail bond agency or professional can surrender and apprehend the accused to the relevant authorities for recouping their losses. Contact a reputed bondsman in Rockingham County to achieve perfect solutions.
Can the Bail Money Be Reimbursed?
Suppose you have already paid cash or used collateral as bail and then you are acquitted of the charges, your bail money may be reimbursed by the court. Your collateral will be returned to you by the court. However, if you plead guilty or the court finds you guilty, the collateral or the money will be reimbursed at your sentencing. However, the courts may deduct some money for paying fees or fines. If you fail to appear in court at your hearing date, the court has the right to seize the collateral and keep the money. Also read about best text-to-speech service.
Conclusion
The bail bond is generally, cosigned by professional bail bondsmen, who charge a token fee to ensure quick and seamless posting of your bail.