When you’re arrested, you’re not convicted of a crime immediately. You’re charged with one, but there still needs to be a final judgment made about whether you’re guilty or not. This calls for a court appearance, where your legal standing is ultimately determined by a judge and/or jury. And in the days or weeks between your arrest and your court date, you may be allowed to get out of jail and be with your family—assuming you’re granted bail.
In some cases, bail isn’t offered at all—though this is usually just for repeat offenders, extremely severe crimes, or suspects who are deemed to be flight risks. Most of the time, bail is on the table—but what type of bail?
You may not know it, but there are actually five different types of bail that you may need to contend with. Here’s a quick guide, via our resident San Bernardino bondsman.
Bail Guidance from Our Bail Bondsman
Cash Bail
This is the term used when the accused simply pays the full bail amount—in cash, via check, or in some cases even on a credit card.
Surety Bond
When you think about San Bernardino bail bond agents, you’re thinking of surety bonds. What this means is that a local bail bond company pays your bail for you; usually, the accused is asked to pay just a small amount, possibly 10 percent. This is the option chosen by those who simply cannot afford to pay cash bail.
Cite Out
In some cases, the accused may be released on citation—a process often called the cite out. Basically, this means the suspect is not booked at all, but rather is issued a citation telling them when they need to appear in court. This is most likely to happen for lighter, less egregious offenses. It’s basically done to save the arresting officer some time.
Property Bond
In rare cases, the accused may not be able to pay a cash bail but has some property to offer instead. If the court agrees to this, a lien will be placed on that property. Should the accused not show up for the specified court date, the court can then foreclose on that property.
Release on Own Personal Recognizance
Finally, some judges may release the individual on his or her own personal recognizance—which just means the person is set free and told when to return for their court appearance. No bail needs to be paid in these scenarios.
Finding an Affordable Local Bondsman
It’s fair to say that, in most cases, those who are arrested will want to know the name of a good, affordable local bondsman—someone who can guide you through the process and help you be back home with your family.
Remedy Bail Bonds is happy to employ the best, friendliest, and most knowledgeable San Bernardino bail agents. To learn more about any form of bail or bond, we invite you to contact the Remedy team today.
