7 Types of Bail Bonds You Should Know About

When someone is arrested, they may be given the option to post bail in order to be released from jail while they await their trial. Bail is typically set by a judge and is based on the crime that the individual has been accused of, as well as their criminal history. If the individual does not have the money to post bail, they can contact a bail bond company.

The bail bond company will provide the necessary funds to post bail in exchange for a fee. Once the individual is released from jail, they must show up for their court date. If they fail, the bail bond company will lose the money they posted on the individual’s behalf. When someone is arrested in Minnesota, posting bail is often the quickest way to secure their release from jail while awaiting trial. However, the bail process can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating the various types of bonds available. At A-Affordable Bail Bonds, we’re here to simplify the process and provide the guidance you need. In this post, we’ll explore seven common types of bail bonds, explain how each one works, and help you determine which option may be best for your situation.

Seven of the Most Common Bail Bonds

Surety Bond

A surety bond is when a bail bondsman cosigns the full amount of the bail with the court. The bail bondsman becomes financially responsible for ensuring the defendant appears in court. If the defendant does not show up, the bail bondsman may hire a bounty hunter to bring them back or pay the court the full bail amount.

Property Bond

A property bond is when a piece of real property, such as a house or land, is used as collateral to secure the release of a defendant. The property’s value must be equal to or greater than the value of the bail. If the defendant does not show up for their court date, they may lose their property.

Cash Bond

A cash bond is when cash is used to pay the full amount of a bail. Cash bonds are paid in full to the court, and cannot be refunded if the defendant fails to appear for their court date. As a result, posting a cash bond is considered a sign of good faith, and may increase your chances of being released on your own recognizance.

Citation Release

A citation release is when a defendant is released from custody after being issued a citation. A citation is like a traffic ticket and does not require bail payment. The defendant must simply sign the citation and promise to appear in court. If they do not show up, they may be subject to arrest.

Release on Recognizance (ROR)

A ROR allows a defendant to be released from custody without posting any type of bond. The judge will consider factors such as criminal history, employment status, and ties to the community when making this decision. If granted a ROR, defendants must still appear for their scheduled court date, or they may be subject to arrest.

Federal Bond

A federal bond is required for defendants charged with a federal crime. These crimes include drug trafficking, mail fraud, tax evasion, and more serious offenses across state lines. Conditions for federal bonds are set by federal law and may vary depending on the specific charge.

Immigration Bond

An immigration bond is required for non-citizens who have been charged with a crime and are being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The ICE detainer ensures that defendants will appear for their scheduled hearing before an immigration judge. Bail can range from $1,500-$5,000 for low-risk offenders to $15,000-$50,000 for high-risk offenders.

Conclusion

If you or someone you know has been arrested, it’s important to understand the different types of bail bonds that may be available. Surety bonds, property bonds, cash bonds, and release on recognizance are the most common, but there are also federal and immigration bonds. Each type of bond has its own conditions and requirements, so be sure to consult with a bail bondsman or lawyer before posting bail.

At A-Affordable Bail Bonds, we’ve been helping Minnesota residents navigate the bail process for over 20 years. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, explain your options, and help secure the fastest release possible. Contact us today for assistance!