Failure To Pay Bail Bonds In The US
Unfortunately, being stuck behind bars while not being able to pay bail is all too common. Here are some statistics about bail bonds in the United States:
Bail Epidemic
According to the American Bar Association, as many as 500,000 people around the country are being held in local jails because they are unable to pay bail.
The Problem with Bail
Over two-thirds of people in jail are not convicted but rather are awaiting pre-trial. Many of that two-thirds are individuals who simply cannot pay bail.
What are the chances?
Close to 90 percent of individuals who post bail will avoid a criminal charge or will be dismissed completely.
Why is bail so expensive?
Some courts have their own interpretation of what excessive and unnecessary bail is due to a 1983 Supreme Court ruling.
How do bail bonds work?
A bail bond agent will usually put up the entire cost of bail on behalf of the defendant and then charge a percentage of the total bond cost.