Bail bonds provide a way for criminal defendants to get out of jail if they don’t have all of the money they need to pay for bail. But before you call a bail bondsman, it’s important that you have a clear understanding of the different types of bonds that are available. Michael L. Brown, a criminal defense lawyer in Rock Hill, SC, wants you to know about the following four types of bail bonds:

#1 Personal Recognizance Bond

These bonds are mainly used for people who’ve been charged with minor criminal offenses. A judge can release a person on one of these bonds, but they must find that the defendant is not a threat to the general public. Although they don’t require money to get out of jail, the defendant must agree to appear for trial.

#2 Surety Bond

These bonds require a bail bond company to pay if the defendant violates the terms of the bond. While this tends to be the most common type of bond, non-refundable fees are required (typically 10% of the bond amount).

#3 Cash Bond

With a cash bond, the entire amount of the loaned bond money will be deposited with a court clerk. Whoever provided the money can get the money back at the end of the case, granted that the defendant does not violate the bail agreement.

#4 Cash Percentage of Bond

This is similar to the cash bond, except that only 10% is given to the court clerk. If the defendant complies with the bail requirements, then the money can be returned at the end of the trial. Should the defendant violate the bail agreement, then the state is allowed to seize property that will cover the entire amount.

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Do you need a criminal lawyer in Rock Hill, SC to help you with your case? Contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. to schedule a consultation.

If you or a loved one are facing criminal charges, there are many terms you’ll need to learn.  For example, bail and bond are two words that are often confused. However, there are some significant differences. Michael L. Brown, a criminal attorney in Rock Hill, SC, is here to explain.

What Is Bail?

Bail is a specified amount of money that a criminal defendant must pay in order to gain release. Either the defendant or the defendant’s family may pay the bail. However, defendants often don’t have the financial means to pay this sum of money.

What Is Bond?

When a defendant can’t pay bail, they can opt for a bond. This process involves trying to secure loaned money from a bail bond company. After securing collateral for a defendant’s loan (such as a car or house) along with a fee, the bail bondsman will pay the court. However, only a portion of the total bail amount is paid upfront. The bond company guarantees the remainder of the money should the defendant flee.

Speak With Our Criminal Attorney For A Free Consultation In Rock Hill, SC

When you need a criminal attorney in Rock Hill, SC to help you with everything related to a criminal charge, contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Brown, Jr. Request a consultation today to learn what our criminal defense lawyers can do.