BAIL BONDS – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

RELY ON OUR BAIL BONDING COMPANY
SERVING BERKELEY COUNTY, DORCHESTER COUNTY & CHARLESTON, SC

What is a bail bond?

A bail bond is a financial agreement made by a bail bondsman to ensure a defendant appears in court. The bondsman posts the full bail amount on behalf of the defendant in exchange for a non-refundable fee, allowing for quick release from jail.

How do bail bonds work?

When someone is arrested, a bail bondsman can post bail on their behalf after a fee is paid. This allows the defendant to be released while waiting for their court date. If the defendant fails to appear, the bondsman is responsible for the full amount of the bail.

When is bail set?

When someone is arrested, their name and personal details are entered into the police system, their photo and fingerprints are taken, and their personal belongings are impounded. After processing, they may be given a sobriety test, allowed one phone call, and then placed in a holding cell.

Without posting bail, the arrested individual must remain in jail until their court hearing. To help reduce overcrowding and allow defendants time to prepare for court, a judge assigns a bail amount. This typically occurs during a bail hearing, which is usually scheduled within 48 hours of the arrest. Once bail is set, a bail bondsman can step in to help post bail and secure release.

What affects the bail amount?

Crimes such as petty theft will result in a lower bail amount than a crime such as grand larceny or more violent crimes – these offenses are more likely to have a higher bail amount. If someone has an extensive criminal history, it is quite likely the bail amount will be increased.

Significant differences exist in costs of bail bonds depending on the charge being a misdemeanor vs a felony – felony charges can be 5 to 10 times higher due to the potential flight risk from a possible long-term sentence. The judge can also deny bail, meaning remaining in jail until sentencing.

When can bail be posted?

In most cases, bail can be posted shortly after the court sets the bail amount. For standard charges, bail amounts are often pre-set, which allows a bail bondsman to begin the release process immediately. For more serious charges, posting bail may require a judge’s approval after a hearing.

How long does the process take to be released from jail?

Once a bail bondsman has posted the bond, release times can vary. In general, it takes anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on the jail’s processing speed, staffing, and time of day. While delays are possible, experienced bail agents work quickly to ensure a smooth and timely release.

How can I make payments?

We make paying for bail bonds convenient and straightforward. Payments can be made over the phone using a credit or debit card, or in person with cash or money orders. We offer flexible payment plans and are always available to discuss options that work for your situation.

What do I do if I miss my court date?

Missing a court date can result in severe consequences, including the issuance of a bench warrant and forfeiture of bond. If you miss court, contact your bail bondsman immediately to discuss the next steps. In many cases, we can assist you in rescheduling your appearance and help avoid further legal complications.

How do I qualify to be a co-signer?

To co-sign for a bail bond, you must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate financial stability. As a co-signer, you’re responsible for ensuring the defendant appears in court and repaying the full bond amount if they fail to comply. Co-signers often include close friends or family members who want to help someone through a difficult time.

Do I get my money back after the case is over?

No, we cannot return any of the premium that is used for the bail bond

What is cash collateral?

Cash collateral refers to money or property held as security for a bail bond. It’s separate from the bail bond fee and is refundable at the end of the case, assuming the defendant complies with all court requirements. We safeguard all collateral and return it promptly once the bond is discharged.