Understanding the Difference Between Bail Bonds and Cash Bail

 

If you or someone you know has been arrested, one of the first things that comes to mind is bail. Bail is the process that lets an individual be released from jail while they wait for their trial. Two common options for bail are cash bail or bail bonds. These options likely seem similar, but they have key differences when it comes to obtaining them. In this blog from a bail bonding company, you’ll find out what sets the two apart from each other.

Bail Bonds vs Cash Bail Definition

A bail bond is a financial guarantee made on behalf of a defendant to the court for them to be released from jail. These bonds are contracted through bail bond agencies, like Alabama Bail Bonds of Tuscaloosa. The company will post the bail for the defendant. Their family or friends pay the bond to the agency at a percentage of the total amount, and the agency covers the rest. On the other hand, cash bail is a financial guarantee paid directly to the court by the defendant, their family, or friends. There is no third-party involvement, and the amount must be paid in full. Typically, the amount will be returned to the defendant if they show up in court.

Cost

The biggest difference between the two is going to be the cost. The bail amount is determined by the seriousness of the crime committed, and it can also be affected by the defendant’s criminal history. Regardless, it can get expensive. When using a bail bond, the percentage paid to the agency is typically 10% to 15% of the total bail amount. For example, if bail is set to $50,000, a bail bond agent may only require $5,000 to $7,500. If you choose cash bail, the full amount would be required.

Collateral

Another difference to think about is collateral. When choosing a bail bond, the agency may require collateral, which may include property or other assets. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bail bondsman can take possession of the collateral to cover their losses. While there is no collateral when paying cash bail, the court can keep the full amount if there is a failure to attend court.

Conclusion

When deciding on the direction to take when it comes to bail, it’s important to know the differences between bail bonds and cash bail. Whether you and your family want to work with bail bonds services or post the entire amount yourself, you need to remember that the responsibility falls on you to show up for scheduled court hearings to avoid further repercussions.

When you or your loved one winds up in jail, your first call should be to Alabama Bail Bonds. We understand how stressful it can be trying to navigate the bail bonds process. Count on a licensed bail bondsman to make the process as easy as possible for you.

Alabama Bail Bonds
1322 Hargrove Rd. Suite B
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
(205) 339-7109
https://www.alabailbonds.com