When it comes to bail bonds, there are a lot of conflicting opinions on the subject. Some people consider bail bond companies as vultures that have made a business out of other people’s misfortune. While everyone is entitled to have their own opinion, the fact of the matter is that bail bonds actually play a vital role in upholding justice in the legal system. Let us tell you how.
Bail Preserves Innocence
One of the founding principles of the American justice system is that everyone has the right to be treated as an equal citizen until they’re proven guilty, and the bail system is designed to promote this stance. When you look at other countries their attitude towards the accused in completely different. Let’s take Italy, for instance. While Italy, in principle, also follows the theory “innocent until proved guilty”, they don’t have a bail system. Instead, the accused can be held, without being charged, for up to a year! So, for all intents and purposes, there’s little difference between an accused and a convict in Italy.
Even in the United States, the justice system and our society is often quick to label the accused as guilty even before their picture has been taken. Even worse is when you’re denied bail, or unable to make it, you’re stuck in a similar predicament to those who’re in Italy. This is what bail bonds are about – allowing citizens to live as a normal member of the community while they prove their case.
The Purpose of Bail Bonds
So the bail system allows you to remain a free individual until your trial. But what if you can’t afford the bail amount? According to the 8th Amendment of the US Constitution, the imposition of excessive bail isn’t allowed. However, it’s done all the time. The accused may be a flight risk or perhaps the crime is serious. But nowadays, even cases of misdemeanors can require a large bail amount. You see, a bail amount of $5,000 is too much for a middle-class person. A paycheck-to-paycheck family can’t even afford to pay $1,000.
However, most people can afford to pay a few hundred dollars. Although you don’t get your money back, bail bond companies typically charge a small percentage of the total bail amount. This is why bail bonds are such an integral component of the justice system.
If you require the help of a bail bond agent in Indiana, you can rely on us at DeLaughter Bail Bonds. In addition to being available 24 hours a day, our experienced agents are dedicated to ensuring that you’re released as quickly as possible. Get in touch with us for more information.
