Bail: Your Get Out of Jail Card
If you’re arrested, you may be focused on how to get out as quickly as possible. The typical route for getting out is by posting bail. The bail may consist of cash, property, or bonds that you provide the court as a promise that you’ll show up in court at the date and time appointed. If you don’t show up to your court appointment, you can expect the court to keep your money and issue a warrant for another arrest.
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Getting Out Quickly
Many people want to get out of jail right away rather than waiting for a couple of days. With this in mind, many jails have standard bail schedules that list the specific amounts (by crime) you’ll need to pay to get out quickly. Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until a judge sets the amount. The advantage to waiting is that the judge may agree to lower the bail amount if you can’t afford to pay the established amount.
Excessive Bail Amounts
Bail is not intended to be a punishment for a crime. According to the U.S. Constitution, bail should not be set at excessive amounts. If you believe the amount is excessive, it’s a good idea to talk to an experienced professional, such as a Harrisburg bail bondsman or the public defender.
Conditions of Release
Once you or your loved one has paid the bail amount, you must comply with the conditions of your release. These may include obeying all laws or staying within a specific location. Other conditions may be set as appropriate to the crime. If you violate any of these conditions, you may end up re-arrested with bail revoked. When this happens, you probably won’t get your bail money back.
Get Representation
When you’re trying to get out of jail or you’re trying to help a loved one, talk to the bail bondsman for answers to your questions. It’s always a good idea to talk to the appointed defense attorney for advice and information about local laws.
If you’re arrested, you may be focused on how to get out as quickly as possible. The typical route for getting out is by posting bail. The bail may consist of cash, property, or bonds that you provide the court as a promise that you’ll show up in court at the date and time appointed. Bail is not intended to be a punishment for a crime. According to the U.S. Constitution, bail should not be set at excessive amounts. If you believe the amount is excessive, it’s a good idea to talk to an experienced professional, such as a Harrisburg bail bondsman or the public defender.