When a bail bond is posted, a defendant is released from jail while awaiting trial. However, this process involves several steps and responsibilities for both the defendant and the bail bondsman. Below is a timeline detailing what happens after a bail bond is paid and what to expect throughout the legal proceedings.
Posting the Bail Bond
- Once the court sets bail, the defendant or their family can contact a bail bondsman to secure release.
- The bondsman typically requires a percentage of the total bail amount as a non-refundable fee (usually 10-15%; 12% in Louisiana).
- The bondsman posts the bail bond with the court, guaranteeing the defendant’s appearance at future court dates.
- The defendant is released from jail, typically within a few hours, depending on processing times.
Conditions of Release
- The defendant must adhere to conditions set by the court, which may include travel restrictions, check-ins with the bondsman, or no contact with certain individuals.
- The bondsman may impose additional conditions, such as requiring the defendant to check in regularly or wear a GPS monitor.
Court Appearances
- The defendant is required to attend all scheduled court dates. Missing a court appearance can result in bail forfeiture and a warrant for arrest.
- The legal process may involve multiple hearings, including arraignments, pre-trial motions, and the trial itself.
- If the defendant complies with all court orders and appearances, the case proceeds normally until a resolution is reached.
Case Resolution
- The case may end in different ways: acquittal, conviction, dismissal, or a plea deal.
- If the defendant is acquitted or the case is dismissed, the bond is exonerated, meaning the bondsman’s obligation ends.
- If convicted, the defendant may be sentenced, which could include probation, fines, or jail time.
Bail Bond Exoneration or Forfeiture
- Exoneration. If the defendant fulfills all obligations and the case concludes, the bond is exonerated, and any collateral used (if applicable) is returned.
- Forfeiture. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the bond is forfeited, and the bondsman may seek reimbursement from the defendant or co-signer. This often involves hiring a bounty hunter to locate and return the defendant to custody.
Responsibilities of the Defendant and Bondsman
- Defendant. Must follow all court orders, appear for all hearings, and comply with any conditions set by the bondsman.
- Bondsman. Responsible for ensuring the defendant complies with the bail agreement and may take legal action if the defendant fails to appear.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Happens After Bail Is Posted
What happens if I miss a court date?
Missing a court date results in a bench warrant for your arrest and possible bail forfeiture. You should contact your attorney and bondsman immediately to try to rectify the situation.
Can I get my bail money back?
If you paid the full bail amount directly to the court, you may get it back after the case concludes, minus court fees. If you used a bail bondsman, the fee paid to them is non-refundable.
How long does the process take?
The timeline varies based on court schedules, case complexity, and legal proceedings, which can take months or even years to resolve.
What happens if the defendant is rearrested?
If a defendant is arrested while out on bail, the original bond may be revoked, and a new bail amount may be required.
Can a bail bond be revoked?
Yes, if the defendant violates bail conditions, the bondsman can revoke the bond, leading to the defendant’s rearrest.
About Affordabail
Affordabail is a local bonding company. With several locations throughout the state of Louisiana, we service St. Tammany Parish Jail in Covington, Livingston Parish Jail in Livingston, Jefferson Parish Jail in Gretna, Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, St. John Parish Jail in Laplace, and many more.
For more than 20 years in the industry, Affordabail Bail Bonds has been providing both families and individuals with expedient and efficient bail service. We are reliable at any time, day or night. We are always here for our clients and we treat people who require bail as people, not criminals. There is no way of knowing the circumstances behind what has happened to an accused, and we firmly believe in “innocent until proven guilty.” This respectful approach to our clients is part of what makes Affordabail better than the competition.
We process all bond payments securely, and our friendly staff is efficient and hardworking, getting all the required paperwork done as quickly as possible. We do not want loved ones to stay in custody longer than necessary. Our bail bondsman will make the entire process of obtaining bail simple and painless. Let industry knowledge work for you.
We offer payment plans, too. For more details on the types of bail bonds we offer, and to get started, call any of our locations, or fill out an online form.
