Bail is not your get-out-of-jail-free card!
In reality, bail works quite differently. For starters, there is no fixed amount that you pay for crimes. The amount is actually influenced by different factors like the severity of the crime and your criminal record.
Who Determines The Bail Amount?
Before identifying factors that affect the bail amount, you need to first identify the person who determines it.
Usually judges handle this task and they decide the best way to determine the bail amount. For example, some of them just follow the standard procedure whereas others have certain condition.
The reason they do so is that every case is different and needs to be treated as such. However, there are certain factors that judges always consider. Here are a few of the most important ones:
Bail Schedules
As stated earlier, some judges determine the bail amount based on the bail schedule. This schedule gives details like the bail amount for a specific crime.
Each jurisdiction has different bail schedules and the amount varies. If the accused feels that the amount is too high, they can approach the judge.
Severity of the Crime
The seriousness of crime will affect the bail amount. The problem though is that police usually only arrest people who have committed serious crimes. Furthermore, they also ensure that they have sufficient evidence to justify the arrest.
Past Records
The accused person’s past record too can have an impact on the bail amount. Usually judges are willing to let you go with a lower amount if this is the first time you have been accused of a crime.
However, if you have had a history of crimes then the bail amount will be high. In addition to that, the judge will outright reject your bail application if you have an outstanding warrant.
How Is Your Relationship With The Community?
The bail amount will be lower if the accused has contributed to the community in some way. Furthermore, people who are invested in the community are also less likely to try and escape.
Is The Person A Danger To Society?
There’s a reason why murderers and rapists are not allowed bail. These people are a danger to the society and they need to be kept in prison. Even if they are allowed to get bail, the amount is very high.
Need to get a loved one out of jail quickly? Get in touch with us. DeLaughter Bail Bonds offers 24-hour bail bond services. We offer different types of bail bonds. Contact us at 260-578-0505 to get details about these.
