If you have never been to jail before, posting bail may seem like a foreign process. You can handle yourself correctly in this situation by considering these tips.
Wait It Out
If your crime is not that severe, then it may be better to just wait it out and spend your time in jail overnight. You can bide your time and get released the next day. Then, you will have to meet with a judge at a future date, where your sentencing will begin. Crimes that are considered petty, such as public drunkenness or jaywalking, typically require spending a short amount of time in jail.
Post Bail
Individuals who have been arrested and sent to jail have the right to post bail to gain temporary freedom. The bail amount is set by the judge based on the type and gravity of the crime you are charged with. Of course, you can immediately pay this if you have the money.
If you can’t, however, it’s time for you to seek help from a Los Angeles bail bonds company. The sooner you post bail, the sooner you can get out of jail. Usually, you will have to meet in court on a specific date, which your bondsman will arrange for you.
Types of Bonds
Another thing you need to consider when trying to post bail is the type of bail bonds that are available in Los Angeles today. These are among the most common: unsecured bond, cash bond, property bond, federal bond, surety bond, and an immigration bond.
Among these types, an unsecured bond doesn’t require you to pay any money upfront. However, you must sign a contract saying you will pay the court the amount of the bond if you don’t show up during the proceedings.
A cash bond is another popular option, and anyone can post this type of bail on your behalf; otherwise, you can opt for a property bond, which allows you to pledge any real estate property you own. If you fail to show up to court, the court has the right to foreclose on that particular piece of property.
If you don’t have the cash and would rather not spend time in jail, consider working with a bail bondsman in Los Angeles. Navigating through this legal process is simple if you are aware of your options and have help from a trusted and reliable professional.
Sources:
How Bail Works, HowStuffWorks.com
