If you are arrested in North Carolina, you must be handed over and processed at a local jail. There are several stages to follow before you can be released from jail. One such step is posting a bail bond to secure your release. Depending on the degree of your case, bail can be set quickly or denied by a court of law. A judge must take part in setting bail, especially on serious criminal charges. So, how do bail bonds work in North Carolina?
How Do Bail Bonds Work in North Carolina?
Bail bonds are an amount that is set by a court that administers temporary release as one awaits for an official court hearing. There are many aspects that go into bail bonds such as how you can get it, how long you have to stay in jail and much more.
What is a Bail Bond?
This is an amount that is set by a court for temporary release as one awaits for an official court hearing. It’s meant to give assurance that the offender will appear during the hearing date. There are different bail bonds issued depending on the crime committed. Common types of bail bonds include surety bonds, cash bonds, and property bonds.
How Can You Get Bail?
Once the booking process is complete, a defendant is allowed to make a call for a bail bond application. If one has enough money, they can post cash bail or ask someone close to help with the application process. For those who can’t afford cash, a bondsman can help post bail for a certain amount of fee.
How Long Can One Stay in Jail?
This depends on a few factors. For instance, you may delay for some time when the bail is supposed to be set by a judge. There are pre-set bails for minor crimes hence easier release from jail. For serious crimes, there must be a bond hearing.
What Information is Required by a Bail Company?
The company will only require a few crucial information to help with the bail process. You must submit your legal names, the amount required date of arrest as well as age.
How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost?
Depending on your bondsman, most bails range between 10-15% of the total amount. The state only allows a maximum of 15% percent so you can get a bail company that charges less. It’s good to compare quotes from multiple bondsmen before settling for one. A bail company can charge you less than 15% but with tough rules, once you are released. Such rules can end up adding to the bond fees than you thought.
If you can’t afford the bond fee at once, then request for bail bond loan. Many bail companies are offering convenient payment plans where you only give a down payment then clear the rest every week.
What Happens if I Miss a Court Appearance?
This will lead to the automatic cancellation of the bail. The court will issue a warrant of arrest as the offender now face another crime. Also, the bond agent must pay the full bail amount to the court. It will be the role of the bail company to pursue the offender in an attempt to recover the amount. Hence, why it is extremely important to be compliant with the court as a large company would with their employees or partners.
Will I Get My Bail Amount After Appearing in Court?
This depends on the type of bail used. If you used a surety bond, the amount will be paid back to your bondsman. For cash bond, you are legally entitled to collect your cash after deducting all legal charges.
Bottom Line
Now you understand how do bail bonds work in North Carolina — specifically in Charlotte. The process is similar to all states with only a few differences. For additional help when it comes to legal technicalities and bail bonds, reach out to a professional attorney that specializes in either criminal defense, personal injury and more that’ll be able to help you through the process.