How Bail Works

Usually after someone is arrested, they are taken to a city or county jail for processing. This process can usually take 1 to 8 hours, after which point they will set bail according to their offense.

During this time the arrestee or his/her friend or family can call the office 24 hours 7 days to discuss options available in securing release from custody pending the outcome of their case. The five most common methods of securing a release for a friend or loved one are:

a. Citation Release – Occurs when a law enforcement officer issues a citation upon your signature, indicating the court, date and time for your appearance.

b. Own Recognizance (O.R.) – This method involves a pre-trial release program administered by a county or police jail. The arrestee background is taken into consideration along with the offense to determine release without any form of bail.

c. Cash Bail – This release involves posting the full face amount of the bail in cash to secure the arrestee presence in court at a later date and time.

d. Property Bond – With a courts acceptance, a lien is recorded on one's property to secure release of an arrestee. Normally the courts will request an appraisal and title search prior to posting.

e. Surety Bond (Bail Bond) – Most common method used involving a legal contract between an indemnitor (co-signer) and bail agency.

Deciding to post bail is in important financial decision, and WE are here to explain the process fully.