You may encounter the bail bond process after being arrested. These bail bonds in West Valley allow you to be free from jail with the condition that you attend your court hearing. They make sure that you are present for your court dates, which helps keep the legal system in order. Unfortunately, misunderstanding West Valley bail bonds is common, and many people do not utilize them to their full potential. Considering this, a lot of people try to take advantage of defendants due to their vulnerable position at that time. As a result, we have created this article to debunk some of the common myths surrounding bail bonds in West Valley.
So let’s get straight to it!
Myth 1: Bail Bonds are Mind Blowingly Expensive
One of the most prevalent myths out there is that bail bonds could burn a hole in your pocket. While this could be true under some circumstances, the cost of these bonds isn’t nearly as terrible as people claim it is. Although the amounts in question can be pretty substantial at times, the purpose of bail bonds is actually to make the release monetarily more easy and accessible. Instead of demanding the bail amounts, bonds only require a small percentage. Additionally, bail bond institutions have varying payment options to fit clients from various economic backgrounds. With a practical grasp of these bonds and how they work, it is possible to do so without worrying about your finances.
Let us show you some ways bail bonds make the release more accessible:
- Lower Upfront Costs – You only need to pay a fee, typically 10% of the bail, rather than the full amount of bail, making payment far easier.
- No Credit Score Requirements – Your financial status does not limit access to bail since your credit history does not affect eligibility.
- Flexible Payment Options – Various payment options like debit and credit cards, as well as money orders, are accepted by agencies in most cases.
Myth 2: Bail bonds can be availed by everyone.
Not all defendants can avail bail bonds as they provide a legal option for release, which is why certain restrictions exist. Depending on the case, different conditions and legal limitations determine who can be set free on bail. More often than not, prior offenses and the severity of the current crime tend to affect eligibility, and in some states, collateral is necessary to qualify for a bail bond. Managing expectations and avoiding complications is easy when one is aware of bail restrictions.
The following are some elements that can influence eligibility for bail bonds:
- Crime Severity Matters – Charged with violent and repeat offenses? You may be denied bail.
- Collateral May Be Required – Some states require a property or cash to be set, making qualifying for signed bonds easier.
- Bail Bondsmen Hold Collateral – Remember that any collateral offered is held until the case has been concluded, so don’t risk more than you can afford to lose.
Myth 3: Bail Bond Agents Make Cash Payments Only
Some people believe that bail bond companies only work with cash, making it overly bothersome for others who do not carry cash. Nonetheless, most agencies strive to make bail bonds more accessible for clients. Bail bond firms understand that people face different financial situations and have solutions catering to different needs. Many even have installment plans to alleviate the pain of paying the whole amount upfront. Doing this helps almost everyone take advantage of bail bonds without worrying.
Below is how bail bond agencies offer flexibility in payment methods:
- Multiple Payment Options – Agencies will accept credit and debit cards, certified checks, or money orders.
- Installment Plans Available – Some companies allow you to break payments into several portions over a period of time.
- Remote Payment Solutions – Certain agencies allow you to pay bail conveniently through the Internet or mobile applications.
Myth 4: Bail Bonds Are Only Relevant to Cases of High Public Interest.
As in television shows or films, many believe bail bonds are exclusively used for severe felonies. The truth, however, is that bail bonds can be used for all offenses, even the most trivial ones. The most common cases requiring bail bonds include traffic, misdemeanours, and even non-violent drug offenses. Contrary to popular belief, bail bonds are not limited to high-profile defendants. Rather, they serve the broader purpose of assisting defendants eligible for pretrial release. This means even a person in front of the court for lesser charges qualifies.
Here’s what you should keep in mind concerning bail bonds and various case types including:
- They Can Be Used For Less Serious Crimes – Bail bonds are extendable for non-violent misdemeanour offences, traffic cases, and even some non-violent drug cases.
- They Are Not an Admission of Guilt – Once bail is secured, it does not constitute acceptance of guilt. Instead, it allows you to wait for trial in freedom.
- They Aid in Preserving Day Life – Bail bonds allow defendants to fulfil their work obligations and other responsibilities until the court hearing.
Myth 5: Paying the Full Bail Amount is Necessary Before Release
A common misconception is that the defendant must pay the full bail before being released, which is incorrect. Bail bonds were created to break bail payments into more manageable portions. Rather than the defendant paying the full amount, more than half of the total cost is covered by a bail bondsman. This makes it possible for defendants to be released from jail after only paying a small percentage of the total bail. With bail bonds, people no longer have to pay everything at once, making it easier to manage financially.
This is how bail bonds ease payments towards bail:
- Partial Payment Required – Defendants only have to pay approximately 10% of the bail amount.
- Bail Bond Company Covers the Rest – The agency pays the remaining balance to facilitate the defendant’s release.
- No Large Sums Upfront – Bail becomes a realistic option for those who are unable to afford to pay the full amount.
Myth 6: Bondsmen Have the Right to Change Bail Amounts
Many people think that bail bond agents can negotiate, and either change or lower the bail amount. This notion is incorrect because a defendant’s judge determines bail solely based on legal criteria. The judge considers the degree of the offense, the history of prior crimes, and if the defendant is likely to flee. While bail bond agents ease the process, they do not make bail determinations. They help the client obtain their release but must comply with the conditions set by the judge.
Services received by a bail bondsman dictate the bail amount:
- Judge Determines Bail – The increase or decrease of bail amounts is only determined during the hearing and is set by a judge.
- Your Criminal History Louder – Continuous repeat offenders or violent criminals are more likely to have increased bail amounts.
- Bail Bond Agencies Are Not Allowed To Negotiate – They assist with the process but bail amounts have to be ordered by the court.
Myth 7: Missing Court is Not a Big Deal
Missing court can and often does trigger severe legal action. If a defendant does not show up to a court date, the court could put a warrant out for their arrest and cancel their bail. Furthermore, any collateral that was put forth for bail money is now lost. A lack of court attendance could result in more legal trouble in the form of new charges. It is exceedingly important to not miss court dates to prevent further legal repercussions.
Here is a list of actions that can and will be taken if a court meeting is not attended, by a presumed authority:
- Loss of Bail Money- All money or valuables set forth for bail will be lost.
- Warrant for Arrest- A bench warrant will be put on the individual to appear in court.
- Additional Legal Charges- New complex charges can be added which further complicate an already complex case.
Myth 8: Using a Bail Bond Will Ruin Your Reputation
Some individuals think that utilizing a bail bond will affect their reputation. In actuality, bail bonds are a legal right, which ensures due process before trial. Posting bail does not make someone guilty, it simply allows someone to live normally until their court date. It is a positive action that assists defendants in getting ready for the legal battle. Instead of worrying about public perception, the most important course of action is to set the person free while adhering to the legal requirement.
Here’s why bail bonds do not harm your reputation:
- Bail Does Not Equal Guilt – Posting bail is not synonymous with being guilty. It is solely to assist the defendant in their daily activities during the waiting period.
- A Practical Solution – Bail bonds make it possible for someone to fulfil responsibilities in their place of work, school, or family.
- Legal and Fair Process – The system enables most defendants with no flight risk to exercise their constitutional right to pretrial freedom.
Final Thoughts
Bail bonds in West Valley are an important and essential service that makes it possible for people to regain their freedom while awaiting their trial. By knowing the truths of commonly held myths, defendants and their families make more appropriate decisions. Instead of listening to misconceptions, it is better to make sure that bail bond services are offered as intended.
If you or someone close to you requires help, reach out because Smart Choice Bail Bonds is ready to assist. For professional advice and a hassle-free bail bond process, get in touch with us today. Call us now and receive the assistance you need!
