How does bail money work

The reforms determine whether someone has to pay cash bail by calculating the risk of recidivism based on a computerized algorithm. Although algorithms can be problematic because they can serve to reinforce the many biases that are present in society in general and the criminal justice system in particular, this program has been a success.

Since its application , the number of people held in pretrial detention decreased by 67 percent. In New York, a law eliminating bail for those charged with certain misdemeanors, most nonviolent felonies, and two felonies classified as violent took effect in Under this law, judges must either release defendants on their own recognizance or provide a non-monetary avenue to seek to ensure their court appearance.

Judicial discretion in setting bail is maintained for those charged with almost all violent felonies and certain nonviolent felonies such as sex offenses and witness tampering. The examples from these places are promising, and many more state and local governments should follow their lead. Until then, unfair cash bail practices will endure nationwide, resulting in dramatically different consequences based on race or wealth.

Explore Our Work. What is cash bail? What are the effects of waiting in jail for trial? Who is hurt most by cash bail? Those who cannot raise the amount of bail through their personal finances have the option of turning to a bail bond company.

Bail bond companies work like lenders, and can pay the bail for anywhere between eight and ten percent of the bail amount. Usually, the bail bond company will require a cosigner for the bond typically a friend, family member, or someone with excellent credit.

The cosigner may also be required to pledge collateral in the form of a deed, cash, or other valuable property depending on the severity of the charges the defendant is facing. If the defendant should fail to appear in court, the bail bonds company will have to pay the bond amount to the court, and will then turn to the cosigner for repayment. If they are unable to pay the amount of the bail, the collateral will be used for the repayment.

While it may initially seem like a good idea to post bail through a bail a bond company, buying a bail bond could end up costing a person more in the long run, and the premium you pay the company is non-refundable. Before posting a bond, it is always wise to consult with an attorney to ensure that your best interests are being protected. We understand that if a family member or friend had been arrested for a felony or misdemeanor charge, your first priority is to help them obtain release from custody.

Depending on which California county the defendant is being held, the process of getting out of jail can differ. Before you post bond through a bail bond company, we urge you to get in touch with Stephen G.

On many occasions, we have even been able to help secure the release of the defendant without having to post bail. In some cases, this can potentially save clients a significant amount of money. Only the person with a receipt for the bail will get the money back after the trial. You can get more information about bail on the website of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. Skip to main content. What is bail and how does it work?