What Is the Difference Between Bail and a Bail Bond?
While bail and bail bonds are related, they serve different functions in the legal system. Understanding their distinction can help clarify how companies like Treasury Bonds: The Better Bail assist defendants.
What Is Bail?
Bail is the amount of money a defendant must pay to be released from jail while awaiting trial. This amount is set by a judge and is determined based on factors such as the severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal record, and their risk of fleeing before the court date. Once bail is posted, the defendant is allowed to go free until their trial. If the defendant attends all required court appearances, the bail money is returned, regardless of the trial’s outcome.
However, if the defendant fails to appear, the court keeps the bail, and a warrant is issued for their arrest. Bail ensures that defendants have the opportunity to prepare for their trial outside of jail. For those who cannot afford the full bail amount, companies like Treasury Bonds: The Better Bail provide a more affordable option through bail bonds.
What Is a Bail Bond?
A bail bond, on the other hand, is a financial agreement made through a bail bond company to cover the bail amount for defendants who cannot pay it themselves. When a defendant works with a company like Treasury Bonds: The Better Bail, they pay a non-refundable fee, usually 10-15% of the total bail. The company then posts the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant, ensuring their release. If the defendant attends all court appearances, no further costs are incurred.
However, if the defendant skips court, the company may have to pay the full bail to the court and could take legal action to recover those costs. Bail bonds allow defendants to regain their freedom without needing to pay the full bail amount upfront, offering a critical service in the legal system.
Need help navigating the bail process? Contact Treasury Bonds: The Better Bail today for expert guidance and personalized support. We're here to help you secure your release and protect your rights!