When facing criminal charges, the legal process can seem daunting and overwhelming. Hearing the various legal terms and procedural rules can make the situation even more confusing. One common term that often arises is “surety jail bond.” 

Below, we briefly explain what a surety jail bond is, how they work, and go over frequently asked questions our Austin criminal defense lawyer receives about these bonds. 

How Does a Surety Jail Bond Work?

A surety jail bond is a legal mechanism used to secure the temporary release of an individual who has been detained in jail while awaiting trial. It serves as a promise that the defendant will appear in court for all required hearings and proceedings. Let’s break down the process:

Arrest and Detention 

When a person is arrested, they are taken into custody and held in jail until their court appearance. This period of detention can vary, ranging from a few hours to several days or even weeks.

Setting Bail Amount

During an initial hearing or arraignment, the judge determines whether the defendant is eligible for release on bail. If granted, the judge also sets the bail amount based on various factors, including the severity of the alleged crime, the defendant’s criminal history, and the likelihood of the defendant fleeing the jurisdiction.

Paying the Bail Amount

Once the bail amount is set, it can be paid in full by the defendant or their family and friends. However, paying the full amount upfront is not feasible for everyone, as it can often be exorbitant. This is where a surety jail bond comes into play.

Contacting a Bail Bond Agent

Instead of paying the full bail amount, individuals often seek the assistance of a bail bond agent. The bail bond agent facilitates the release of the defendant by posting the surety jail bond on their behalf. In exchange, the defendant pays the bond agent a non-refundable fee, typically around 10% of the total bail amount.

Collateral and Guarantee

To secure the surety jail bond, the bail bond agent may require collateral from the defendant or their family, such as property or other valuable assets. This collateral serves as a guarantee that the defendant will appear in court as required. If the defendant fails to comply with the court’s orders, the bail bond agent can recover the collateral as compensation.

Court Appearances and Obligations

After release, the defendant must fulfill certain obligations, including attending all court appearances as scheduled, following any imposed restrictions (such as travel limitations), and refraining from engaging in illegal activities. Failure to meet these obligations can result in the revocation of the surety jail bond and the defendant being returned to custody. A defendant should always hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent them at all court hearings.

Conclusion of the Case

Once the criminal case reaches a conclusion, whether through a trial verdict, plea agreement, or dismissal of charges, the surety jail bond is discharged, and the liability is resolved. The bail bond agent no longer holds any obligations towards the defendant.

Surety Jail Bond FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about surety jail bonds:

What happens if the defendant fails to appear in court? 

If the defendant fails to appear in court as required, the court may issue a warrant for their arrest. In such cases, the bail bond agent becomes responsible for paying the full bail amount to the court. This could involve finding and bringing the defendant back to court or paying the full amount to avoid forfeiting the bond.

Can anyone post a surety jail bond? 

While anyone can post a surety jail bond, they must meet certain requirements. Bail bond agents usually require collateral or a co-signer to secure the bond. The specific conditions may vary depending on the circumstances and the bond agent involved.

Can I get a refund if I paid for a surety jail bond and the case is dismissed? 

No, the fee paid for a surety jail bond is non-refundable, even if the case is dismissed. The fee is the cost of securing the defendant’s release and compensating the bail bond agent for their services. It is important to understand that the fee is separate from any fines, fees, or restitution ordered by the court as part of the case resolution.

Skilled & Knowledgeable Austin Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or a loved one find yourselves in need of a surety jail bond in Austin, the Law Office of David D. White is here to provide legal assistance. Our team of highly skilled Austin criminal defense attorneys focuses exclusively on matters like yours. To set up a free legal consultation or case review, contact us now.