"Unlocking Bailable Offenses in Indiana: Which Crimes Make You Eligible for Bail Bonds?"
Getting a bond, also known as bail, is an essential step in the criminal justice process for anyone accused of a crime. When parties charged with a crime pay their bail, they can get out of jail until they have had their day in court. However, it's important for people charged with a crime and their loved ones to understand what crimes get set bonds and what to expect from the bond process in Indiana. Bail Bond Agency Of Indiana believes in empowering parties to get the necessary bonds. Getting bail bonds in Indianapolis and nearby areas doesn't have to be an unbearable burden.
Bail Bond Agency Explains How Bonds Work
Bonds are a crucial part of the American justice system because they allow people to maintain the presumption of innocence, so people aren't punished before the courts have determined whether they have committed a crime. Bail bonds are one of the first steps taken in court proceedings, allowing defendants to be released from custody while awaiting trial.
What is a Bond?
A bond ensures that defendants attend court dates by leveraging a financial investment. Defendants pay cash to get out of jail while they await trial. If defendants do not attend court dates, they risk further criminal trouble and forfeit the bond, meaning the amount they have paid will not be refunded.
Are Bonds Always Needed?
Bail bonds are often needed, but that is not always the case. In some cases, the judge will determine that a person can be released on their recognizance, meaning that they are low risk and can be trusted to come to their court dates without needing to hand over any collateral.
What Crimes Can You Bond Out On?
Each state has a different process and rules, but the process of bail bonds in Indiana is straightforward, making it easy for defendants to understand how bail will likely work for them. The good news for those charged with a crime is that most crimes will be required to have bond available. However, according to the Indiana Rules of Criminal Procedure, there are two particular cases when you may be held without bond. For murder and treason, a bond isn't always offered. In these cases, the judge can still give a bond amount, but the judge may opt not to. For most other cases, the state of Indiana must offer bail bonds of a reasonable amount. Even in cases beyond murder or treason, a judge can deny bonds if the court decides that a person is a danger to themselves or others or is considered a significant flight risk. A risk assessment determines if a person should be given a bond.
Who Determines the Bond Amounts?
While you cannot know precisely the amount that will be chosen for a person's bail, you can get a good idea based on the circumstances of the alleged crime. The Supreme Court has determined that all bonds must be set at a reasonable value in Indiana. Several factors are used to define that value.
Some things the court will consider include:
Past criminal record regarding how a person has interacted with the court in the past
Ability to pay bail and employment status
One's presence in their community
Relationships with other people and family members
Mental state, reputation, and overall character
Higher risk factors or the severity of a crime often result in higher bail overall, but there is a good deal of variability.
Who Can You Go to for Bonds?
Who you go to for a bond will depend on your circumstances and the type of bond you use. Different types of bonds can be used. Thus, defendants have a couple of options when dealing with their bond and must determine what suits their situation. Understanding your options will help you make the right choice for yourself or your loved one.
Cash Bonds
A cash bond is when the accused raises funds on their own and signs a cash bond to ensure that they will appear in court. This bond can be paid by the person who has been charged with the crime of their loved ones. The total amount must be paid in this situation, so paying upfront can be expensive. While those who attend court will get the money back, this option isn't accessible for everyone.
Surety Bonds
Some people may not have the money to pay their bond out of pocket; in these cases, it is expected to use a surety bond. With the help of a bail bondsman, bonds become more accessible to those charged with crimes. A surety bond is issued through a bail bondsman, a professional who works through a licensed surety company in Indiana. The person who needs the bond pays a certain percentage upfront as collateral, while the bondsman pays the remaining balance. Surety bonds are especially useful when bond amounts are high or otherwise hard to pay, but they can take a little bit longer than a cash bond because bondsmen have to create a bond contract to define the terms of a bond agreement and determine what consequences there will be if someone forfeits the bond.
Preparing for Bond Payment
Bail Bond Agency Of Indiana wants to be a bail bondsman company that individuals and families can trust. Offering 24-hour bail bonds, we strive to give everyone who works with us the best service. We want individuals and their families to be empowered to understand how surety bonds work and what to expect throughout the process.
If you are looking for bail bonds in Indianapolis, our company offers local bail bonds for those in Indianapolis and other communities in Indiana. Contact us today to get started on a bail bond contract and posting bail for yourself or a loved one.
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