If you are arrested, you do not have to stay in jail until your trial date. With the approval of a local judge, you will be awarded bail for temporary release. The bail amount is what will be forfeited if the offender fails to show up in court. The amount of bail that you pay will vary based on a number of factors. Some of these factors include the following.
Bail schedules
Every state will have a standard bail schedule that is used for setting bail depending on the severity of the felony committed. Misdemeanors will usually carry lower bail amounts while felonies will result in higher bail amounts. In addition, the type of crime will also determine the amount that the judge posts for bail.
Criminal history
Individuals without any criminal records are seen to be a lower flight risk than individuals with a felony history. As a result, the bail for past criminals is usually set higher to protect the community, in case of repeat offenses. Furthermore, a judge can deny bail completely for defendants that have outstanding warrants to keep them in custody.
The charge
Even though defendants are normally innocent until they are proven guilty of their felony charges, the type of crime that one has committed will significantly influence the bail amount. For instance, individuals who are accused of a misdemeanor may have to pay just a few thousands, while felonies will get higher bond amounts. The difference is mainly because the person may flee if the crime they are accused of results in heavier sentences.
Flight risk
If an individual is guilty and they know that the chances of getting a bad sentence are higher, they may skip the trial. As a result, such individuals may be considered a higher flight risk. Another flight risk sign is offenders who have family in other countries, have a passport, or have a known history of skipping bail. Individuals who are a high risk tend to get higher bail amounts than those who are not. For excellent services, contact Castle Bail Bonds.
Amount of evidence
The judge will also consider the amount of evidence provided against the accused person. If there are higher odds of the individual being sentenced for their felony, then they may get higher bails. This will help to discourage the accused person from trying to run away.
Community standing
You can lower the amount of bail; you can request the judge to consider different aspects of your role in the community. This will include family, employment, and even charitable involvement. The more that the accused person is involved in the community, then the less likely that one will flee. As a result, you can be granted a lower bail amount.
A danger to the community
Public safety is a significant consideration when setting bail. If the judge determines that the defendant is a risk to other people, bail may be increased or even rejected altogether. For example, individuals with a history of DUIs may face higher bail payment because there is a likelihood that they will end up drunk driving again and putting the lives of other people in danger after their release.
As mentioned above, the judge will take different factors into consideration when it comes to issuing, waiving or denying bail. If you are not sure about the amount of bail posted by the judge and would wish to challenge it, then you can speak to your attorney to determine the options that you have. Alternatively, you can hire a bail bonds company to help you settle the bail amount.