Bail is a system in place to ensure that defendants return for their court dates. Whether you will have to post bail to get out of jail will depend on your situation. The judge might decide to release you on your own recognizance, meaning you give your promise to appear as scheduled. Still, they could set bail, but you might not have to pay the total amount if you go through a bail bond company for assistance.
To learn about how our Columbus team can help you or a loved one secure pre-trial release, please call Andy Callif Bail Bonds at (614) 945-4334 or contact us online today.
What Is Bail, and How Does It Work?
When someone is arrested and taken into custody, they may be released while they await their trial by posting bail. Bail is a form of financial security, guaranteeing the accused will appear in court when required.
The purpose of bail is to ensure the defendant’s return for any scheduled hearings or court appearances. It also protects the community from potential harm or danger the accused poses. Most importantly, it keeps a person presumed innocent from remaining behind bars while their case is pending.
What Factors Determine Whether Bail Is Set?
Several factors determine whether bail is set and the amount a person must pay. Sometimes, the bail amount is pre-set and listed on a schedule.
In other cases, a judge will have discretion in deciding whether to allow someone pre-trial release and how much it will cost to get out of jail. The judge’s decision is not arbitrary. Instead, they use established criteria when determining whether someone should be granted bail. Ultimately, their goal is to ensure the defendant’s appearance in court and protect public safety.
The factors the judge may base their decision on include, but are not limited to, the following:
- The severity of the crime,
- The defendant’s criminal history,
- The defendant’s ties to the community,
- The weight of the evidence against the defendant, and
- Whether the defendant is currently on conditions of release, such as probation or parole.
Will You Have to Pay Bail to Get Out of Jail?
Whether bail will be set in your case depends on your situation. Under Ohio’s Rules of Criminal Procedure, courts must impose the least restrictive measures that will ensure the defendant’s appearance in court and protect community safety.
The judge will examine various factors, including those listed in the previous section and other relevant components. If you have been accused of a low-level crime and don’t pose any threats to others, the judge may release you on your own recognizance. This means that you can be let out of jail without having to pay bail.
Still, if you’re released on your own recognizance, the judge may subject you to other non-financial conditions, such as the following:
- Regular reporting to an authorized agency,
- House arrest,
- No contact with the alleged victim,
- Travel restrictions, and/or
- Completion of an alcohol or substance abuse program.
What Are Your Options If Bail Is Set in Your Case?
If you have been charged with a more serious offense, like causing severe bodily injury to another person, and your history suggests that you are a flight risk and/or might be a danger to others, the judge will likely set bail.
Whether you must pay the bail amount depends on the option you choose to secure your release from jail. You might decide to post cash bail. In this situation, you (or your loved ones) would pay the court from your own pocket.
Alternatively, you can choose to enlist the help of a bail bond agency. With this option, you would not have to pay the actual bail amount to the court. Instead, you pay a premium to the agency. The agent then posts a bond on your behalf.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing a Bail Bond Company?
Opting to hire a bail bond company has several advantages. Rather than handling the process solo, you have a knowledgeable guide helping you through each step. The agent can ensure that you understand what needs to be done to secure your release and your obligations after you’re out of jail.
Additionally, an experienced bail bond agent will know how the court system works, facilitating a more efficient process. In other words, they could help you get out of jail more quickly than you would if you tried to take on everything yourself.
Lastly, a bail bond agency’s premium is considerably lower than the bail amount. Typically, these companies charge a 10% fee for their services. Thus, a $10,000 bail, for example, would cost $1,000.
Reach Out to Our Team
Paying bail is not always required in every case. In some instances, a person can be released on their own recognizance. In others, even if bail is set, individuals can have an agency post bond on their behalf.
If you or a loved one need help with the bail bond process in Columbus, please contact Andy Callif Bail Bonds at (614) 945-4334.