If you have been arrested, you are at the beginning of what may be a long journey through the criminal justice system. While the process may vary, most criminal cases follow these steps involving bail.
Determining the Amount of Bail
If you have been arrested and booked into jail, the first thing you’ll want to find out is how much bail money will be needed in order to get you out. Sometimes, people that have been placed in jail for misdemeanors can post bail and be released in just a matter of hours.
When a Judge Sets Bail
For crimes that are more serious, a judge or magistrate may have to determine the bail amount. In this case, you will likely have to remain in jail until the next court date that is available. Bail is set in an amount that is necessary to guarantee that you will return to court at your appointed time.
Purchasing a Bail Bond
If you do not have the funds available to post bail, you can purchase a Bucks County bail bond to solve this issue. A bail bondsman will post your bail for you in exchange for a fee.
Being Released on Own Recognizance
If you are released on Own Recognizance (OR), you do not pay bail at all; you simply sign a statement promising to return to court on your assigned date. However, being released on OR is not available to everyone.
Failure to Appear
If you fail to show up for court, a warrant will be issued for your arrest. If you posted your bail, that money will also be confiscated and never returned.
