The Bail Bonds System in North Carolina: How Does It Work??
It is always unpleasant when you or someone you know gets arrested. It is a very difficult situation to deal with, especially when your stay in jail is needlessly prolonged. But, if you know your rights, you can post bail and avoid jail time until your appearance in court. This is possible if you are eligible. In North Carolina, and generally in other states, eligibility for bail is determined by the court, including its amount. The following is a quick guide to posting bail in the state of North Carolina.
What is the Purpose of a Bail Bond?
The rules that apply to bail bonds in Raleigh and all throughout North Carolina is the same, as it is similar to other states. A bail bond is an assurance that a person will appear in court even after his release from jail. If the defendant attends all required court appearances, there is a full bail refund. However, those who fail to appear will forfeit their bonds and will not get what they paid for as bail. will forfeit the bond by not showing up leaves no chances of getting their money back.
How are Bail Bonds Set?
A judge determines the amount of bail. Judges normally follow standard practices like setting bail for nonviolent petty misdemeanors at $500; however, they can increase or lower the standard bail depending on relevant facts and circumstances surrounding the individual’s case.
Aside from the nature of the crime, other factors that affect the amount of bail set are defendant’s past criminal record; if they have close ties with their relatives and their community; or whether they are employed or not. If the bail bond is reasonable, a person close to the defendant can post the bail. However, if it is too high, a bail bondsman can assist the defendant.
What is a Bail Bondsman?
A bail bondsman or a bail bonds agency may pledge money for a defendant’s bail. Once they sign the bail bond, it now becomes their responsibility to make sure the defendant appears in court. If the defendant fails to do so, the bail bondsman has to present the defendant in court within 150 days or pay the full bail. Forfeited bail money goes to the public school system of North Carolina.
If the bail bondsman is successful in presenting the defendant to the court, the bond becomes void. In North Carolina, the cost of the bail bondsman’s service is 15 percent of the amount of the bond.
A bail bond is a quick solution if one wants to avoid staying in jail while waiting for his day in court. However, if they cannot afford the bail set by the judge, they can turn to a bail bondsman to help them out.
