The Difference Between Bail And Bail Bond

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We have noticed that there is some confusion about what bail is as opposed to a bail bond.

What is Bail?

Bail is the temporary release of a prisoner in exchange for security given for the prisoner’s appearance at a later hearing.

In some cases, the amount is pre-set and determined by the charges you face. In other cases, a judge looks at the details surrounding your arrest and decides an appropriate bail amount.

What is a Bail Bond?

A bail bond is an agreement by a criminal defendant to appear for trial or pay a sum of money set by the court. The bail bond is cosigned by a bail bondsman, who charges the defendant a fee in return for guaranteeing the payment.

Sounds like the same thing, right?

The big difference is the part about the bail bondsman and the amount of money you get back after the case.

When you post the bail yourself, you pay the entire amount, but you also get the entire amount back once your case has been concluded. It doesn’t matter if you’re found innocent of the charges or if you’re convicted, you’ll still get 100% of the bail back. Many use that money to cover some of their court fees.

When you opt to use a bail bond, you pay the bail bond agency a fee, usually 10% of the set bail price. You will not get this money back after the case. Depending on your circumstances, you may also be required to put up an asset as collateral and/or have a co-signer.

The reason so many opt for a bail bond is that they are unable to come up with the entire amount for their bail. Paying the 10% fee is quite reasonable since it means they’re free to spend time with their loved ones, plan their defense and continue to work as opposed to sitting in a jail cell.

Why You Should Contact Shafter Bail Bonds

There are several reasons why you should contact us once you realize you’re going to need a bail bond. A few of these reasons include:

  • 24/7 Bail bond service
  • FREE Online or Phone Consultation
  • 20% Discount for qualifying clients
  • Phone/online approvals
  • 0% Interest customized payment plans
  • No hidden fees
  • No collateral is required for working signers
  • Outstanding customer service

The sooner you reach out to Shafter Bail Bonds, the sooner we can post your bail bond.

We’ve created two simple and safe ways to contact us. Simply click the Chat Now link or call us at 661-326-0601.