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Do Affordable Bail Bonds Really Exist?

Do Affordable Bail Bonds Really Exist?Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://rivercity-bailbonds.com/do-affordable-bail-bonds-really-exist/

 

Whether you’ve been to jail or not, you’re most likely familiar with bail. We hear about it on the news and social media. Bail is an expensive way for inmates to get out of jail while awaiting a trial for a crime. Depending on the nature of the crime, bail can range from a hundred to millions of dollars. Although bail itself is often very expensive, bail bonds are an affordable alternative to getting one out of jail. The fees for bail bonds tend to be the same across the entire state of Texas – with the actual amount you pay varying based on the bail itself. 

Affordable bail bonds really do exist. Here’s what you need to know about bail and affordable bail bonds.

  • State and Federal Bail Bond Amount Regulations
  • What Determines Bail the Amount?
  • The Financial Benefits of Bail Bonds
  • Affordable Bail Bonds

State and Federal Bail Bond Amount Regulations

The fees for bail bonds are regulated and subject to state, local, and federal laws. The standard fee for most bail bonds across the country is 10 to 15 percent of the bail. In Texas, some counties prohibit bail bondsmen from charging less than 10 percent of the bail amount. 

Federal bail bonds are usually more expensive than state bail bonds. There are also more stipulations and paperwork to complete for the release once the bond is secured. Federal bail is usually around 15 percent.

What Determines the Bail Amount?

Judges set bail based on a structure. Typically, the judge may set a low bail amount for small or petty crimes, usually between $50 to $2,000. However, judges in Texas can use their discretion and set bail as they see fit. If a defendant has an extensive criminal history, the judge may set a higher bail for the crime. If a defendant is considered a risk to the public, the judge can intentionally set an impossibly high bail amount to keep the defendant behind bars until the hearing. In other cases, judges can refuse to allow the defendant to post bail entirely.

Judges commonly use the following factors when setting an inmate’s bail:

  • The “risk” level
  • The severity of the crime 
  • The defendant’s criminal history
  • The bail schedule

The Financial Benefits of Bail Bonds

Instead of having to come up with the entire bail amount, a bail bond requires you to pay a percentage (non-refundable) and put up collateral equal to the bond. This is an affordable alternative to paying thousands of dollars to get out of jail. Even if you have the cash on hand, bail bonds allow you to keep more money in your pocket for other expenses, such as lawyers and court fees. Defendants can request a bail reduction hearing if the bail is too high, but there are no guarantees a judge will reduce the bail.

Affordable Bail Bonds

River City Bail Bonds understands that even coming up with 10 percent of bail can be a challenge, especially during a high-stress time. River City Bail Bonds offers flexible payment plans to help make the process more affordable and easier for your loved ones to get out of jail and prepare to defend themselves.

If you’re looking for an affordable bail bondsman in San Antonio, Texas, we are available 24 hours a day. We make the process as simple and stress-free as possible during a difficult time. We’re experts and can quickly get you or your loved one out of jail. Contact us today to learn more about our affordable bail bonds and flexible payment options   

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