Most people have at least a vague idea of what a bail is. After all, crime shows have been extremely popular for decades now. But how true to life is the representation of the bail bond process in films and shows? What really happens when you get arrested and how does the bail bond process play out in real life?
If you or someone close to you have been arrested, knowing what to expect can ease your mind a bit and help you get ready for the often stressful procedure. In this article, we will break down the bail process and show you how hiring a bail bondsman in Connecticut can help. Read on.
How does the bail bonds process work?
Although the details may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case, here is a brief overview of a typical bail bonding process.
When you get arrested
When a person is arrested for a crime, they will first be taken to a police station to be processed and booked. During this stage, a police officer will speak with the person to gather relevant information (e.g. name, address, birth date, etc.). The person is charged with a crime and they typically undergo criminal history checks, as well as have their fingerprints and mugshot taken. The police will also take the individual’s personal property and withhold it until they are released.
The person will typically be allowed to make one phone call. Most people choose to use this phone call to contact a lawyer or call a family member or friend to contact one for them.
Bail and bail bond
Individuals charged with a crime typically remain in jail for up to 2 days, that is until they are allowed bail. The release method is determined by a judge, a bail commissioner, or the police depending on a number of factors. In some cases, a PTA or non-surety bond may be allowed, meaning that the person can be released from jail for free. Most people, however, are assigned a cash or surety bond with a set amount.
The person’s criminal history usually plays a role when determining bail. For example, if someone had previous criminal charges and a history of not showing up at court, they may be denied bail. Bail may also be denied due to some other factors, including the nature and circumstances of the crime. People charged with more severe crimes, such as rape, manslaughter, and murder, are typically denied bail and stay in custody until a jury trial where their guilt or innocence will be determined.
Being arrested and having a bail hearing can be a difficult and stressful situation. This is why most people choose to hire a lawyer to represent them in court, as well as hire a bail bondsman if they are unable to afford bail.
What does a bail bondsman do?
While some people manage to pay the bond in cash, with the help of a family member or friend, there are many circumstances where hiring a bondsman to pay a surety bond is the better or only choice. In the first case, a cash bond will be refunded once the case is settled, although the court might use some of the money to pay for various fees. A surety bond, on the other hand, is posted by a bondsman with a 7-10% premium depending on the amount of bond. This amount is paid to the bail bond company as a fee for their services.
Here are some cases in which hiring a bail bondsman may be the right choice:
- You are unable to afford bond, even with the help of friends and family
- You need guidance and support during the bail bond process
- You want to spend less money during the process: by hiring a bail bondsman, you’ll only have to pay about 10% of the bond instead of paying the full amount. They will also take responsibility and pay bail for you if you fail to show up at court.
Looking for an experienced bail bondsman in Connecticut? Contact us now
At BailCo Bail Bonds Manchester, we strive to provide clients in Hartford County and across Connecticut with confidential, efficient, and reliable bail bond services. We work with a team of experienced bondsmen and women who are well known for their fast response and commitment to meeting the needs of each client. Our services are available 24/7, no matter where you are located in the state. Don’t hesitate to contact us whether you want to learn more about the different types of bail bonds or have other questions for a professional bondsman. Get in touch now.