When a friend or family member is put in jail, the last thing you want to do is spend a lot of time researching how to get them out. Adding legalities onto everything else is nothing short of painful.
That being said, it’s still necessary to understand the bail bond process among other things to get your loved one out of jail as soon as possible. So below you’ll find a few helpful hints on how to bail someone out of jail Philadelphia PA, as well as some of the methods of payment you can utilize to pay the bond.
Follow the Arraignment Process
Once the arrestee is booked, their arraignment will take place within the next few days. In some states, the bail amount for many offenses is standardized, so you might be able to find out what the bail will be even before the arraignment. Once the judge declares the bail amount and sets court dates, read the conditions of bail carefully. You can pay bail using one of the methods given below.
Assets
You can always use money or property to pay a bond. This is usually the simplest route if you can afford it. If the person arrested doesn’t get into any more trouble and makes all their court dates and appointments, you will be refunded the bail money you paid.
Waiver
There are some smaller offenses for which bail can be waived if the friends and family members of the arrestee sign a waiver. This document guarantees that the signers will pay the full bond amount if the defendant doesn’t show up to court. Check your local guidelines to find out whether this option is available to you.
Bail Bondsman
If the bail amount is too much for you to handle, then you can hire a bail bondsman to pay the amount. You have to pay them 10-15% of the sum, while they supply the rest. Your payment will not be refunded. This type of payment, also known as a surety bond, is not legal in a few states, so again be sure to check your local guidelines.
Whatever payment method you choose, always speak with a legal advisor first. Once you’ve paid the bond, make sure the defendant meets all their obligations so that the bond will be returned. These tips should help you get your loved one out of jail in no time!
