Generally speaking, you will always have the choice to post a cash bond in person or to hire a bail bond company to post a bond on your behalf. Of course, there are pros and cons with each type of bond.
- Cash Bonds
A cash bond requires payment of the full bond amount, in cash, to the county or city. First, to post a cash bond, take the required bond amount to the jail and make the necessary payment. Make sure to get a receipt! The advantage of posting a cash bond is that the county or city must return the full amount of the bond once the case is fully resolved, regardless of the outcome. However, cash bonds can be expensive and it is often difficult to come up with the full cash bond amount.
- Surety Bonds
If you are unable to post a cash bond, you can hire a bail bond company to post a surety bond on your behalf. Generally, bail bond companies will charge you 10% of the total bond amount to post a surety bond. Often, this amount is non-refundable and will not be returned to you when the case is resolved. Additionally, it is also very common for bonding companies to charge various extra fees for payment plans, the ability to check-in over the phone instead of in person and even just to stay on your bond. As a result, a surety bond can be very difficult and burdensome.
In either case, if you have any questions or concerns about posting a bond for you or a loved one, contact Haddad Law Firm today to discuss your options! Or give us a call at (469) 844-0008 to speak with an attorney regarding your case.