In Florida, criminal defendants can be released from the county jail when they are eligible for bail. The bail is set according to the defendant’s criminal history and the current charge. A bail bond is a way to get out of jail without paying all the bail. Reviewing what to know about surety bail bonds in Bartow helps defendants make informed decisions about their options.
Paying the Necessary Fees
The surety bail bond requires the criminal defendant to pay a fee. The bail bondsman charges a fee between ten and fourteen percent of the bail via cash, check, or credit card payments. If the defendant doesn’t have the money, the bail bondsman provides collateral to cover the fees.
What Collateral Is Used?
The collateral is signed over to the bail bondsman through a legal document. The bondsman collects the title or deed for the asset when they accept the collateral. The most common forms of collateral are automobiles, real estate, and jewelry. However, bonds and certificates of deposit are acceptable.
Stipulations of Getting a Bail Bond
The criminal defendant must abide by the terms of their release from the county jail. Any violation of the terms leads to another arrest. Most terms include refraining from drinking alcoholic beverages and using controlled substances. The defendant isn’t allowed to visit or contact any victim identified in their case. The criminal defendant must also avoid committing any additional crimes during their release.
What Happens If the Defendant Doesn’t Show Up?
The bond is provided on the pretense that the defendant will appear in court on their scheduled date. If the defendant doesn’t show up, they are subject to a new arrest. The bail bond is revoked, and the judge signs a bench warrant. In some cases, the defendant won’t have a chance to get a new bail bond.
In Florida, criminal defendants purchase a bail bond to get out of the county jail. The bail bondsman needs certain details about the defendant including their booking number and full name. Criminal defendants who want to learn more about surety bail bonds in Bartow can contact a 24/7 licensed bondsman right now.
