Bail Bonds And Federal Court

Posted on: 13 February 2019

Most people know how bail works when dealing with the state courts. A local bail bond agent can go to the jail and sign paperwork securing the release of an incarcerated individual. Family members or friends only need to pay a percentage of the total bail to secure a bail bond.

The bond process is much different when someone is facing federal charges. Bail bonds in federal court are complex and can take some time to successfully complete.

Appearance Bond

One type of bail bond that you can utilize to secure release from a federal prison is an appearance bond. These bonds are designed to help individuals with minor charges secure a quick release. To secure an appearance bond, a family member or friend must sign paperwork that guarantees the incarcerated person will behave appropriately while out on bail.

The court will decide who can act as a surety on an appearance bond. The full bail amount will be demanded in full if the incarcerated individual fails to make court appearances or comply with the conditions of bail. This means that only financially secure persons will be allowed to act as a surety.

An appearance bond is most similar to the bonds used in state court. The major difference is that this bond guarantees compliance with all bail conditions (drug testing, travel restrictions, etc.) in addition to court appearances.

Property Bond

Many federal cases require more than just a signature to secure a defendant's release on bail. Property bonds are used to provide collateral that will guarantee bail can be paid should a defendant fail to appear in court or violate the terms or his or her release.

The judge presiding over a case will determine which properties are acceptable to secure a property bond. The property will need to be appraised to determine the amount of equity that exists. The equity in a property must be greater than the total bail amount.

Since appraisals and title reports are required to successfully submit a property bond, it's best that you deal with an experienced bail bondsman to prepare the necessary paperwork.

If a loved one has been charged with a federal offense, you may find yourself with limited options when it comes to securing his or her release on bail. Federal bail bonds have complex requirements and restrictions, so partner with a bail bond company that has experience working with the federal court system.

If you would like to learn more, look at this.

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