If you’ve been arrested for the first time, you might be surprised to learn there are multiple types of bail. Texas law includes four types of bail bonds, and the one you’re faced with depends on the court, the severity of your offense, and how you decide to pay. This can be a confusing concept for anyone dealing with the legal process for the first time, so we’ve made a list of the different kinds of bail bonds available to you.
Personal Recognizance
If you’re a first-time offender of a non-violent crime, the court might release you simply on your promise to show up for all court hearings. This might be combined with other pre-trial diversion programs to help you get back on track and reduce the chances that you’ll offend again. This kind of bail is only granted after the court confirms this is your first offense, and that you have connections in the area, such as a family or job.
Cash Bond
Cash bonds are the least expensive bail bond available, usually costing $1,000 or less. These bonds are reserved for misdemeanors with no aggravating causes, and they can usually be paid in full by the defendant or with the help of a co-signer. It’s still recommended that you hire a bail bond agency to pay low bonds for added security. The defendant or co-signer can usually get most or all of their money back once the defendant shows up to their hearings.
Security Bond
When the defendant can’t afford to pay their bail, even with the help of a co-signer, their best option is to hire a bail bond agency. The biggest advantage of paying with the help of a bail bondsman is the defendant usually only has to pay ten percent of the bail to the agency, and a co-signer can help with the cost. This method comes with the risk of the defendant not appearing in court, which will result in a bail forfeiture and a warrant for their arrest. If the bail forfeiture goes through, the defendant and co-signer will be responsible for paying the entire bail amount to their agent.
Property Bond
Property bonds aren’t as common as cash and security bonds, but they give defendants with high bail amounts the option to still receive bail. The defendant or a co-signer must give the title to a property to the court or a bail bondsman, which they will get back once the defendant appears in court. The property must be located within the state, and it must be of equal or greater value than the bail amount. Popular properties include houses, vehicles, bank accounts, or valuable items like electronics and jewelry.
Get Out of Jail Fast With Delta Bail Bonds
If you or your loved one is facing jail time after an arrest, Delta Bail Bonds can help. Our bail bondsmen are available 24/7 to post bail anywhere in the country, and we’ll be able to help you through every step of the legal process. Call or visit our website to get in touch with a talented bail bondsman today!
