When you are arrested, a bail hearing is often one of the first things that happens. If the offense is deemed bailable and bail is set low, you can pay it and be released until your trial. If the bail is set high, you may have to wait in jail until your trial.

Learn more about how bail bonds work, including the difference between bailable and nonbailable offenses, below.

What is the difference between bailable and nonbailable offenses?

Bailable offenses are those where bail can be paid to get the defendant released from jail until their trial date. Non-bailable offenses are those where bail cannot be paid to get the defendant released from jail until their trial date.

Many cases qualify for bail, but some do not. For example, if someone is accused of a serious crime like murder, bail may not be an option. The judge may also decide you have a nonbailable offense if you're considered a flight risk, which means they think you might skip town before your trial date.

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is a surety bond that is posted on behalf of a defendant to secure their release from jail. The bail bond company charges a non-refundable fee, such as 10% of the bail amount, and guarantees to pay the full bail if the defendant does not show up for their court date.

If you're unable to post bail on your own, bail bond companies are one option to help you get out of jail until your trial date. You should always contact a bail bondsman as soon as possible after your arrest to start the bail bond process.

How is the amount of bail determined?

The type of crime that was allegedly committed determines whether bail is set low or high. Generally, bail bonds are set low for nonviolent crimes and high for violent crimes. If the bail is set too high, a defendant may have to wait in jail until their trial date.

What happens if you can't pay bail?

If you can't pay bail, you will have to wait in jail until your trial date. That's why many people rely on help from a company that offers bail bonds. If you are found guilty, you may have to pay bail bond fees in addition to any other fines or penalties that are imposed. If the judge decides you are innocent, you will get your bail money back.

Bail bonds can help you get out of jail while you await trial. Learn more about how these bonds work by speaking with a company that provides funds for bailable offenses. 

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