Understanding the different types of bail bonds can help individuals make informed decisions when facing legal issues. This article explores the various types of bail bonds typically used in the legal system.

Cash Bail

Cash bail is the most straightforward type of bail bond. The defendant, a family member, or a friend pays the full bail amount in cash to the court. If the defendant meets all court requirements, including appearing for all court dates, the cash bail is returned, less any administrative fees.

Surety Bond

Also known as a bail bond, a surety bond is a contract involving three parties: the defendant, the court, and the bail bondsman. The bail bondsman pledges to pay the bail amount if the defendant fails to appear in court. In return, the defendant or their representative pays the bondsman a fee, usually a percentage of the bail amount.

Property Bond

In a property bond, the defendant or a representative offers real property as collateral for the bail bond. If the defendant fails to comply with court requirements, the court can foreclose on the property to recover the bail amount.

Release on Own Recognizance

In certain cases, a defendant may be released on their own recognizance (ROR), meaning they promise to return to court without needing to post bail. This option is typically reserved for minor offenses or for defendants with strong ties to the community who pose a low flight risk.

Federal Bail Bonds

Federal bail bonds apply to federal crimes and are posted directly to the court. They can be cash, property, or surety bonds. Unlike state bail bonds, federal bail bonds may require a bail hearing, and the defendant may have more stringent release conditions.

Immigration Bail Bonds

Immigration bail bonds are for individuals detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). There are two main types of immigration bail bonds.

Delivery bonds are issued on the condition that the detainee will show up at all immigration hearings. It allows the person to spend time with family and consult with an immigration lawyer in preparation for the court appearance.

Voluntary departure bonds require that the detainee agrees to leave the U.S. voluntarily within a specific time frame. The bond is refunded once the person has left the country, but it is forfeited if the person fails to leave.

Given the complexity of immigration law, these bonds require a bail bondsman licensed to handle immigration bonds.

Reach out to a company like All Star Bail Bonds to learn more.