Bail may be one of the most misunderstood parts of the American criminal justice system. People mistakenly believe that bail is intended as a punishment for wrongdoers. The real purpose of bail, however, is to ensure that a defendant appears at trial. However, bail has increasingly been used as a punishment, which can make it difficult for the average person accused of a crime to be out of jail before trial. Bail bonds offer a way for people who cannot afford to pay the entire bond amount to get out of jail until trial.
What Is Bail?
The term bail refers to the amount of money that a judge or court says a defendant must pay to be released from jail pending trial. A court can order different types of bail. In addition to cash bail, a judge can allow other methods of payment, such as the payment of a bond. The court may also impose other requirements for a defendant who is released, like drug testing or staying away from an alleged victim.
What Is Bond?
Bond refers to a promise to guarantee the amount of bail if a defendant fails to appear at trial or otherwise comply with conditions of release. A bond may be paid in many ways, but the most common way is to pay Bail Bonds in North Richland Hills is to employ the services of a bail bonds company or other surety.
What Is a Surety?
A surety is a third-party that guarantees payment of bail if a defendant fails to appear. These third-parties do not generally pay the bail to the court; they simply promise to pay the bail if a defendant fails to appear. To make this promise, sureties generally charge a fee. This fee is non-refundable, even if a defendant is eventually found guilty.
Choosing a Bail Bond Company
Finding a reputable surety for Bail Bonds in North Richland Hills means finding a company that responds to calls 24/7, has a good reputation for customer service, processes bonds quickly to secure fast releases, and is well-respected among the court. Ronnie D. Long Bail Bonds meets all of those criteria.