Frequently Asked Questions

Utilizing the services of a Bail Bond agent has many benefits. When posting your own Bail via a cash bond, the defendant will ultimately be responsible for the entire amount of the bond (penal sum). This can tie up much needed financial resources for you and your family in a time of need. Additionally, a Bail Bond agent has a wealth of experience in dealing with these situations which can involve several complex legal processes. Bail Bond agents can also assist with insuring that defendants are aware of court dates, as well as any other conditions set forth by the courts. 

The courts, via the first appearance judge, are responsible for setting bail amounts. In most jails, bail is set according to previously set guidelines that specify bail amounts. This is commonly referred to as the "bond schedule".

State Bonds 10%

Federal Bonds 15%

Immigration Bonds 15%-20%

Collateral is something of value that’s held by the bail agent to ensure the defendant is present for all court proceedings. Cash, real estate, a vehicle, a bank account – all can be considered collateral. Sometimes the signature of a qualifying co-signor will be accepted.

A bail bond agent has a legal responsibility to safeguard all collateral. As long as the defendant has not failed to appear before the court, collateral is returned once a case is completed – whether the defendant is found innocent or guilty. A bail agent’s fee, however, is not returned; this is payment for services rendered regardless of the outcome of the case.

The time required for a defendant to be released from custody can depend on several factors. These factors include but are not limited to, which jail the defendant is being release from, whether of not the defendant must go before the judge prior to receiving a bond amount, time of booking, shift changes by jail staff etc. However, between 3 to 8 hours would be the most common wait times experienced by defendants in custody awaiting release on bond. 

A Nebbia hearing is an important part of the federal criminal justice process. If you have been arrested and charged with a federal crime, you will need to post bail to remain free while your case makes its way through the system. A Nebbia hearing is a court procedure during which you must disclose the source of funds used to acquire the assets you are posting for bail. If you convince the court that those assets were obtained with legitimate funds, you may be released. This is a process that we can assist you with in the event that it is required.