Bail FAQ at Jackson Law

Understanding the process of posting bail, funding the payment, and exploring alternatives when financial resources are limited.

What Is Posting Bail?

Posting bail involves providing the court with a financial guarantee that a defendant will attend their scheduled court appearances. At Jackson Law, we understand the urgency and importance of securing a defendant’s release from custody. If the defendant fulfills their obligation to appear before the court, the bail amount is returned. Types of bail may include:

• Full cash payment or check equal to the bail amount
• Property equivalent in value to the bail amount
• A secured bond for the full bail amount
• A written agreement to attend court appearances, known as “release on recognizance” or “O.R.”

Who Determines the Bail Amount?

Judges hold the discretion of setting bail amounts. To expedite release, jails often provide bail schedules with predetermined amounts for common offenses. Should you find yourself detained, Jackson Law can guide you through the process of addressing this initial bail setting swiftly.

Are There Limits to Bail Amounts?

Absolutely. The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution mandates that bail not be exorbitant. Its fundamental purpose is to secure a defendant’s appearance in court while preventing unnecessary financial penalties or government profit. High bail amounts may be imposed in certain grave instances to ensure the suspect remains incarcerated until trial.

What If I’m Unable to Afford the Scheduled Bail Amount?

If the preset bail is beyond your financial means, it is your right to request a review from a judge. This plea can be made during a specialized bail hearing or at your initial court appearance. The team at Jackson Law is prepared to assist you in this advocacy.

When Do I Appear Before a Judge?

Federal laws state that an individual must be presented to a magistrate without undue delay. Regulations typically dictate a maximum of 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) from arrest to court appearance. Should you face delays, Jackson Law can help enforce your rights.

What Are Bail Payment Options?

Bail payment can be approached in two ways: paying the full bail amount directly or obtaining a bail bond. Acquiring a bond involves a 10% premium which serves as the bond seller’s fee, but be mindful that while this premium is nonrefundable, paying bail in full can be recovered after court appearances. Collateral may be required by bond sellers, representing a risk you should consider carefully.

Can’t I Be Released on My Word Alone?

In some cases, release on your own recognizance is possible. Details like community ties, longevity of residence, steady employment, a clean or minor criminal record, and a history of attending court can sway a judge in this decision. The legal team at Jackson Law is well-versed in advocating for O.R. release and can assist in presenting the strongest case for your reliability.

If you have any questions related to bail, or if you or a loved one need professional legal assistance in navigating these processes, don’t hesitate to contact Jackson Law at 650-587-8556. We are here to offer our insights and support.