Many people are vaguely aware of the term bail. However, they may not be aware of what bail actually means. Bail has several uses. It can be used to avoid going to prison in the first place. Bail can also be used to get someone out of prison until their case is heard. If a person is charged with certain crimes by the police immediately, they may be brought to jail for processing and then sent to a jail cell. The person being accused may have to stay there until the case is heard. This process can be overcome with the use of bail. Bail is a specific sum of money. One person or a company agrees to put up a certain sum of money. In turn, the accused can avoid going to prison or can be let out.
Getting Arrested
People can be charged with a crime under varying circumstances. A person can be accused of driving under the influence while on the road after being caught at a checkpoint. They can also be accused of a crime that is considered more serious under state and federal laws. For example, someone may be facing charges such as kidnapping, rape, and murder. These are all crimes that can lead to an arrest. Once arrested, several courses of action can then take place. The defendant may be brought to jail immediately. Or, the person accused may be released. Then, they agree to come back for trial at a certain point in time in the future.
Bail is Set
Jail and prison are different places. Jail is generally reserved for low-level crimes. Those who are serving lighter sentences will generally do so at a local jail. People facing more serious charges will typically be sent to prison. Prison is a more restricted environment with less access to the outside world. Bail can come into play in both types of spaces. A judge may offer the defendant the opportunity to put up a certain sum of money. In turn, they do not need to go to jail. The same is true of those facing prison. They can put up an amount to avoid being held until a verdict is given.
Access to Funds
The amount of bail depends on multiple factors. More serious charges typically require the defendant a larger sum of money. A person can pledge may different types of assets as part of the bail. For example, they can choose their home as collateral. They can also work with a bond company. The conditions of bail are typically straightforward. If someone fails to show up for court, the amount of bail may be forfeit. In addition, the person can face the additional charge of failure to appear. If the person meets all necessary court dates, the court will agree to return to the amount of the bail to the defendant or to anyone who has put up the amount. All involved in the process should understand what is required of them.
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