How Is Bail Set in Texas?

There are plenty of things that can determine how a bail amount is set in the state of Texas. But first, itā€™s useful to know the basics of what bail is. Basically, itā€™s the sum of money you pay to be able to await trial at home. However, not all arrests can result in bail, and you wonā€™t always be able to pay the bail amount yourself. So, letā€™s learn about how bail is set and what your options are.

Bail Depends on The Type of Arrest

When talking about the bail amount, itā€™s important to note that it wonā€™t always be the same. Again, several factors will play a role here. However, the most important one is the severity of the crime. In the state of Texas, misdemeanors and less severe crimes can entail a bond ranging from $1,000 to around $3,000. On the other hand, suspected murders can warrant as much as $1,000,000. So, if you get arrested or if your loved one needs your help with bailing them out, you should be prepared and not surprised when you see a few more zeros on the check than you expected.

Itā€™s Up to the Judge

Bail hearing is the time when youā€™ll be facing the judge. Usually, the bail amount will stay within the mentioned ranges. However, itā€™s really up to the judge to decide on the amount. 

No two crimes can have the same circumstances. The judge will have to determine what they think is the appropriate punishment after hearing your side of the story. So, they can decide to keep you in jail until your trial, or you might be given the option to post bail to await trial from home. When it comes to less severe crimes, the judge will usually stick to setting bail, so jail time is something you shouldnā€™t worry about.

Bail Options

There are several things you can do when it comes to making bail. What most people opt for is having a family member post it for them. It works just as you would imagine it ā€” someone you know will have to come and pay it for you.

Additionally, if your relatives cannot help you, you can look for a bail bond company. In that case, a bail agent will come and post the bail for you. Donā€™t forget that this only means that youā€™re able to wait for your court date out of jail. If you fail to appear in court, the judge can order another arrest.

Delta Bail Bonds Has Your Back

If you or anybody you know needs help paying their bail, weā€™re the right bail bondsmen to call. There are many different reasons why you should choose Delta Bail Bonds, namely convenience, assistance, confidentiality, and knowing the court system like the back of our hands. We will ensure that you and your loved ones have the best possible experience in such an unfortunate situation. So, contact us today, and let us help you out!

Tips for Safely Interacting with Police

Everyone has a different experience when interacting with the police, but thereā€™s always a common element – it can be quite frightening. Luckily, there are ways to increase your chances of having a safe police encounter. Here are a few pieces of advice you should follow when the police stop you.

Keep Your Hands Visible

Normally, the first instructions you hear will be to keep your hands visible. Itā€™s extremely important to keep this in mind throughout the entire interaction. During a police encounter, you may feel nervous, anxious, fearful, or a combination of these emotions. Without even thinking, you may feel compelled to put your hands in your pockets or somewhere else the police officer may consider suspicious. To avoid any misunderstandings, always keep your hands visible.

Be Polite and Respectful

This is possibly one of the most effective ways to ensure your police interaction is a safe and calm experience. Regardless of if youā€™re innocent or guilty, remain polite and quiet when interacting with a police officer. If you donā€™t feel comfortable speaking to them or answering their questions (besides identifying yourself), calmly let them know that you would like to speak to your lawyer first. According to the law, the police officer should respect that request and wait until a lawyer is present.

Do Not Argue

Do not, under any circumstances, argue with the police. If you think they are wrong or mishandling the situation, either politely tell them that you would like to speak to your lawyer or comply with their instructions. Anything else may be considered resistance, which may cause the officer to escalate the situation. As a citizen, you have the right to remain silent until a lawyer is present. By law, you’re only required to identify yourself. Itā€™s always safer to be silent instead of argumentative.

Donā€™t Make Sudden Movements

No matter how the police interaction is going, you should not make any sudden movements. Whether itā€™s quickly moving your hands or your whole body, you want to remain as still as possible and only make slow movements. Officers are trained to respond to sudden movements. During your police encounter, theyā€™re watching your body language and overall tension. If you make any sudden movements, they will respond quickly and the situation will escalate.

Donā€™t Resist Arrest

Never resist arrest, even if youā€™re innocent. Instead, if you think the police officer is wrong, ask for your lawyer. Remember that the goal is to have a safe police encounter. In order to ensure maximum safety, you should comply with the police at all times. Once your interaction with the police is over, you can file a formal complaint against the officer, or the jurisdiction, for their mishandling of the situation.

Talk to Your Lawyer

Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Only share details about your police encounter with your attorney, and be sure to ask them for advice on what you can and canā€™t say in public. This will ensure your safety after the police encounter and minimize the risk of anything being used against you in court.

Delta Bail Bonds

If someone you know is facing jail time after an arrest, Delta Bail Bonds can help. Our experienced bail bondsmen are available 24/7 to post bail for your loved one in any part of the country, and weā€™re always dedicated to giving you the fast, respectful service you deserve. Call or visit our website to get in touch with an experienced bail bondsman today!

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