CanABailBondsmanHelpWithA
CashOnlyBond
In some situations, a court may require that the only acceptable form of bail for a defendant is a cash-only bond. If you find yourself in this situation, it means you must pay the entire bail amount using cash. This is quite different from the usual surety bond. With surety bonds, a local bail bondsman company can handle the full bail amount after the defendant pays a smaller percentage. That is usually around 10-15% of the total bail cost.
Moreover, the accused person can only be released from jail once they’ve paid the entire bail amount. Courts will accept actual cash, or you can opt for a more secure payment method. It includes a credit card or debit card. This means that the court receives the full bail amount upfront before the defendant can be released from custody.
The Reason Why Courts Impose Cash Only Bonds On
Defendants
There are several reasons why a court is more inclined to require a cash bond rather than any other type of bond.
■ One significant factor is the defendant’s past behavior when dealing with legal issues. For example, if the defendant has a history of missing court appearances or failing to pay court-ordered fines, the likelihood of a cash bond being imposed increases.
■ Another reason for a cash bond is if the court considers the defendant to be a flight risk. It means that they are likely to flee instead of attending their court hearing. It is true especially if they are facing a long prison sentence or a hefty fine.
■ Besides, cash bonds are preferred here, as they provide the court with the assurance that they will receive the bail amount if the defendant doesn’t show up for their court dates.
This Is Where Your Bail Bondsman Will Come In!
There are three categories of individuals who can make payments for a cash-only bond.
■ The first category includes the defendants themselves, who can directly pay the bond amount.
■ The second category comprises members of the defendant’s family who may choose to provide the necessary funds.
■ Lastly, a third party, such as a bail bondsman, can also step in to pay the bond on behalf of the defendant. Further, bail bondsmen always help you out in the best way possible
In certain states, courts have the authority to deduct money from the bond and move it toward any fines that the defendant owes. Result? The individual who paid the bond may not always receive the full amount back, even after the conclusion of the court case.
Furthermore, if the defendant fails to appear for their court appointment, the entire bond is forfeited. Whoever paid the bond will not be eligible to receive any reimbursement of their money
Getting Your Bail Bondsman To Post Your Bail
How to post a cash-only bond can vary depending on the state you’re in, as procedures are not standardized nationwide. However, the process is generally straightforward. It usually entails your bail bondsman going to the prison’s cashier’s window to post the bond.
Once the bail bondsman pays the bond amount at the prison cashier’s window, they will receive a receipt. This receipt is a crucial part of the process because it serves as proof of payment. Also, the money can only be refunded to the individual whose name appears on the bond receipt.
In other words, whoever pays the cash bond should guarantee their name is correctly recorded on the receipt. It will secure their ability to get the money back once the legal proceedings are concluded.
You’ve Posted Your Cash Only Bond, Now?
Once you’ve been released from custody with a cash bond, you need to adhere to the conditions outlined in the bail agreement. This typically involves:
■ Following specific requirements
■ Ensuring your presence at all scheduled court appearances
Failure to meet these conditions can lead to the cancellation of your bail bond, and a warrant for your arrest may be issued. Additionally, if a judge decides to renounce the bond, it means that the bond money now belongs to the relevant authority It can either be the county, city, or state. In such matters, the money is not returned to the person who posted the bond. Also, it essentially becomes the property of the government entity
This underscores the importance of abiding by the bail terms and fulfilling your court obligations to avoid losing the bond amount.
In Cases Of Nonpayment To Bail Bondsman
Many bondsmen typically mandate payment of a premium and the receipt of collateral before they proceed with posting bail. However, there are instances where some bondsmen may accept premium payments and even post a bond without obtaining collateral. This approach is flexible. Yet, it does carry the risk of the bondsman not receiving payment.
The Bail Bond Agreement serves as a legally binding contract involving all parties concerned. If you fail to make premium payments or meet the collateral requirements as agreed upon with your bail bondsman, several consequences can unfold. It may be the:
■ Potential re-arrest of the defendant
■ Possibility of the indemnitor or defendant facing a civil lawsuit
All of this depends on the terms and conditions outlined in your specific agreement with the bail bondsman.
Find Yourself A Good Bails Bondsman
Check with the Local Police Department
Some law enforcement agencies have established agreements with bail bond companies. In certain issues, you might even encounter a bail agent employed directly by the police department.
Ask for Recommendations
Do you have acquaintances with connections to the criminal justice system? Consider reaching out to them! Inquire if they can recommend a reliable 24 hour bail bondsman
Search Online
Moreover, numerous websites provide directories of bail agents and bail bond companies across the United States. You can use these platforms to discover not only the available agents but also their respective rates for their services.
Directly Contact Bond Companies
Some bail bond companies maintain their websites. Besides, you can reach out to them directly for assistance in finding a bail agent or getting support for a cash-only bond.
Consult Your Lawyer
In case of having legal representation, consult your lawyer to see if they can suggest any bail agents who can expedite your release from jail.
Contact the American Bail Association (ABA)
The ABA is a national organization that represents the bail bond industry They can help you:
■ Connect with a qualified bail agent
■ Provide valuable information about their rates and services.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
Inquire among your friends and family if any of them have ties to bail agents and could assist in securing your release.
Search Online Advertisements
Keep an eye out for online advertisements posted by bail agents seeking new clients. You may also come across bail agent ads in local newspapers or magazines.
Attend Seminars or Conferences
Additionally, some bail agents offer informative seminars or conferences. These are often free or at a discounted rate, to educate potential clients about their services.
Contact
Your State’s Attorney’s Office
Several states have programs through their attorney’s offices that offer financial assistance for individuals needing to post a cash-only bond. You better reach out to your state’s attorney’s office to explore these options if available.
Takeaway
Managing cash-only bail bonds can feel overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the process. Fortunately, with proper legal guidance and advice, you can effectively navigate this system.
By consistently educating yourself on how to navigate cash-only bail bonds, you can gain the confidence needed to handle any cash bail bonds that come your way successfully
