When a bail bond is paid, the defendant is released from jail while waiting for their trial. However, this process comes with several steps and responsibilities for both the defendant and the bail bondsman. Below is a breakdown of what to expect after posting bail.
Posting Bail
- Once the court sets a bail amount, the defendant or their family can reach out to a bail bondsman for assistance.
- The bondsman requires a non-refundable fee, usually 10-15% of the total bail (12% in Louisiana).
- After payment, the bondsman submits the bail bond to the court, guaranteeing the defendant’s attendance at future hearings.
- The defendant is released, typically within a few hours, depending on processing times.
Conditions of Release
- The court may impose restrictions such as travel limitations, mandatory check-ins, or no contact with specific individuals.
- The bondsman may also require additional conditions like regular check-ins or wearing a GPS monitor.
Court Appearances
- The defendant must attend all scheduled court hearings. Missing a court date can lead to bail forfeiture and an arrest warrant.
- The legal process includes multiple stages such as arraignments, pre-trial motions, and the trial itself.
- If the defendant follows all court requirements, the case proceeds normally to a resolution.
Case Outcome
- The case may conclude in acquittal, conviction, dismissal, or a plea deal.
- If acquitted or dismissed, the bail bond is released, and the bondsman’s obligation ends.
- If convicted, sentencing could involve probation, fines, or jail time.
Bail Bond Release or Forfeiture
- Bond Release: If the defendant meets all requirements and the case concludes, the bail bond is released, and any collateral is returned (if applicable).
- Bail Forfeiture: If the defendant skips court, the bond is forfeited. The bondsman may recover the amount from the defendant or co-signer, often by hiring a bounty hunter.
Responsibilities of the Defendant and Bondsman
- Defendant: Must follow all court orders, attend all hearings, and comply with any conditions set by the bondsman.
- Bondsman: Ensures the defendant meets bail terms and may take legal action if they fail to appear.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Happens After Bail Is Posted
What happens if I miss a court date?
Missing a court date results in a bench warrant for your arrest and possible bail forfeiture. You should contact your attorney and bondsman immediately to try to rectify the situation.
Can I get my bail money back?
If you paid the full bail directly to the court, you may receive a refund after the case ends, minus any court fees. If you used a bail bondsman, their fee is non-refundable.
How long does the process take?
Court proceedings vary in length depending on case complexity, often taking months or even years.
What if the defendant is arrested again while out on bail?
The original bail may be revoked, and a new bail amount may be required.
Can a bail bond be revoked?
Yes, if the defendant violates bail conditions, the bondsman has the right to revoke the bond, resulting in the defendant’s rearrest.
About Bail Bonds St. Tammany
Bail Bonds St. Tammany is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Bail Bonds St. Tammany has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Bail Bonds St. Tammany better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
