Getting arrested can be a very stressful and embarrassing situation, especially if you have never been arrested before. Often, first time offenders feel foolish for having gotten themselves into a situation where they have been arrested. So, when it comes time to make a phone call, you might be a little confused about who you should call. Should you call a bail bondsman? Should you call a relative? A friend? You may feel reluctant to involve a family member or friend in your current situation, but can you bail yourself out of jail? Or does someone else need to do it for you? The answer may surprise you.
What is Bail?
First of all, let’s make sure you understand exactly what bail actually is. When you are arrested and charged with a crime, a trial won’t happen right away. It can take weeks or even months before you get your day in court. Bail is an amount of money that you pay to the court to be released from jail to await trial. By paying bail, you guarantee that you will appear for your trial. If you do, you can reclaim your bail money once your case is closed. Bail amounts vary based on the offense and the defendants record. If you don’t have the cash to pay bail in full, a bail bondsman can help. To get a bail bond, you pay 10% of the bail in cash and the bail bonds company guarantees the rest. You may also have to put up some kind of collateral, like a car, boat, or house, that is equal to the bail amount.
Who Can Post Bail?
To answer our original question, yes; you can bail yourself out. However, there are some limitations. In order to bail yourself out, you need to have the full amount of bail on your person at the time of the arrest. Depending on your offense, that may be quite a lot of money. If you don’t have the funds to bail yourself out, you can turn to a loved one for help. If they don’t have the funds to pay your bail in full, you or your loved one can get a bail bond to secure your release. It can be difficult to ask for help in a situation like this, but if you are fortunate enough to have friends and family who love you, they will most likely help you get back on your feet.
What Comes Next?
After you post bail, you will be released within a few hours, depending on the jail and how busy they are. Upon release, you will be notified of any conditions of your bail. Depending on your offense, you may be required to stay within state lines, refrain from alcohol and drugs, participate in a treatment program, for example. Between your release and your trial, focus your efforts on being a model citizen. Work with your attorney on your defense, go to work or school regularly, and show that you are on the road to living safely and legally. Your ability to show that you are bettering yourself may help you at trial.
We’re Here For You!
At Delta Bail Bonds, we’re more than a financial resource. We can help you and your family navigate your arrest and the bail system with ease. Don’t make a stressful time more difficult. Let us help! Give us a call and get out of jail fast!