Bail is something of value, usually cash or a bond, but can sometimes be property, that a person who has been arrested provides the court in exchange for release from jail until that person is either convicted or acquitted of charges. If that person does not show up for court, the court may keep the bail and issue a warrant for that person’s arrest.
Bail Amount
The judge at the defendant’s arraignment hearing will set bail. However, many jails have set bail schedules for commonly committed crimes. The defendant may be released from jail without waiting for the judge by paying the bail schedule amount for the accused crime. Defendants who can not afford the amount specified in the bail schedule may ask the judge to set a lower amount or contact bail bonds near me Allentown PA to post bail. In some jurisdictions, courts use algorithms that take into account factors, such as criminal history and age, to make an automated recommendation.
Bail Compliance Conditions
There are usually conditions that the bailee must comply with to avoid penalties, such as having bail revoked and being arrested and returned to jail. Conditions may be general, such as obeying all laws or specific to the accused crime, such as not contacting the alleged victim.
Bail Payment
Bail can usually be paid by check or cash for the full amount, surrendering property with a value that equals the full amount of the bail, purchasing a bond or obtaining a waiver of payment. If the bailee shows up for all of the court dates, the bail is refunded, less an administrative fee.
The bail process provides a way for persons accused of crimes to return home while awaiting their court dates. However, failing to appear for that court date after posting bail can result in serious consequences.
