If you have a friend or a loved one who was recently arrested, you might be wondering if they can post bail themselves or if you will need to take the reins and figure out how to get them released. The simple answer is yes, they can bail themselves out of jail, but that yes is dependent on several factors.
The Conditions to Be Able to Post Bond Yourself
- They will need to have had a valid ID on them or brought to them.
- Do they have the cash on their person to pay the entire amount of the bail? If a judge sets bail at $10,000, they will need the whole $10,000 in cash, usually in the form of a cashier’s check or money order. Some facilities accept credit card payments for bail, and others may require a cashier’s check.
- Someone will need to have the legal authority to access their bank account to withdraw the funds, get the appropriate form of payment (cashier’s check or money order) and take it to the facility.
Most people don’t have access to that amount of money. This is where the assistance of a bail bondsman is helpful.
How to Post a Bail Bond for Yourself
Typically a friend or family member works with the bondsman to secure the release of their loved one. Some people who have been arrested prefer to secure bail through a bondsman themselves for whatever reason, or they may not have anyone in the area that could help. It is possible for someone who has been jailed to post a bail bond themselves, but there are a few factors that might have to be met first.
Have assets to put up for collateral – If they are a homeowner, the equity has to at least equal the amount of bail.
A good credit score is often required – This shows the bondsman that they are responsible with money.
A stable job – Being gainfully employed lets the bondsman know they are a productive member of society.
Be a first-time offense – Some courts deny bail for repeat offenders.
Some jails have a list of local bail bondsmen or have a phone book so the inmate can find a bondsman to work with.
The Job of a Bail Bondsman
The bail bond agent will get to work setting the wheels in motion to help secure release from jail.
Bail bond agents require 10% of the set bail amount. They will secure the rest of the bail amount in the form of collateral. If the defendant does not have enough collateral, relatives and friends can assist in covering the bail but they will be responsible if the defendant fails to appear for court..
What happens next depends on if the defendant appears in court after being released on bail. The bail bond is forfeited if the defendant fails to appear in court. The person that put up collateral will be required to pay the remaining 90% of the bail to the court, and a warrant will be issued for the defendant. If the defendant appears for all scheduled court dates and the case has been closed, the bail bond is dissolved, and the collateral is returned to the person who posted it. The bondsman retains the 10% cash fee.
For assistance securing bond in the San Antonio area, get in touch with us. We’re a family-operated bail bond company providing compassionate and knowledgeable experience navigating the legal process after arrest. We can explain the bail bond process, answer your specific questions, and help you secure a bond any time of day or night.
