Bail is an important concept to understand if you or a loved one ever find yourself in the unfortunate position of being charged with a crime. Here are some important facts about bail and how it works.
What is Bail?
Bail is collateral that a defendant gives to the court to ensure that he or she will show up for their court appearance. He or she is then released from jail to wait until his or her trial. The collateral could be in the form of money or property. Often, a “bond” is used to secure bail. This is a type of insurance that is issued to the court by the defendant, a loved one, or a bail bond company. If the defendant does not show up for court, a warrant may be put out for his or her arrest. He or she may also lose the bail money or the property used as collateral.
What are the Types of Bonds?
There are many types of Lackawanna County bail bonds, but there are three that are mainly used. These are a surety bond, an insurance bond, and an appearance bond. An appearance bond is paid by the defendant themselves, while a surety bond is paid by a family member or friend. An insurance bond is paid by a bail bond company. Bonds can be secured, partially secured, or unsecured. A secured bond is paid in full at the time of bail, a partially secured bond is only partly paid, and an unsecured bond is paid at a later date.
What is a Bail Bond Company?
A bail bond company is an agency that, for a fee, will pay the bail for a defendant and ensure that he or she is at their trial. If the defendant fails to show up for the court appearance, a bail bondsman will sometimes find him or her and take him or her to court so that the bail bond company can collect their money.