What Determines Your Bail Amount?

If you are arrested for a crime and will be held in jail, a judge has the right to grant you early release from jail by paying bail. However, the judge will determine how much bail must be paid, and they use a few factors to determine the final amount. Here are some factors that can go into determining how much money is needed for bail.

If You're A Danger To The Community

One thing that a judge looks at is the potential danger you post to the community by being released from jail, and this is determined by the nature of the crime that you committed. If you are in jail for committing some sort of violent crime, a judge may set a high bail amount to discourage you from being released early from jail. Meanwhile, a non-violent crime may result in a lower bail amount since there is no safety risk associated with you being free.

If You Have A Criminal History

If you are a first time offender, a judge may set a very low bail amount to make it easier to get an early release from jail prior to your court date. However, someone with a big criminal history may receive a larger bail amount as a deterrent to keep the person in jail. It's actually possible for a judge to release you based on your own recognizance, which means that no bail is required. This can be due to a combination of a first-time offense and no criminal history.

If You Have Community Ties

The reason that a judge may require a large amount of money for bail is if they think you are a flight risk. If you are able to show that you will not leave town due to your tied to the local community, it's possible to receive a reduced bail amount. For example, you could show that you own a local business and thus have a lot to lose by leaving tow and not coming back.

If You'll Lose Employment 

Being stuck in jail can have a huge impact on your job and can potentially result in being fired if you miss work. If you can demonstrate that you cannot afford bail and that being stuck in jail will result in you losing your job, you may be able to have your bail lowered to a reasonable amount that you can pay. If you still can't afford to pay bail on your own after a judge lowers the amount, contact a bail bonds company like HB Bail Bonds.

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