The uniform bond schedule The new law mandates the Florida Supreme Court to establish a uniform schedule for specific offenses not included in the “dangerous crime” category. This schedule became effective on January 1, 2024, outlining set bond amounts for various felonies and misdemeanors.
Bail bond fees are set by the state When bond is set for someone who was arrested in Florida, the amount is not made up. The bond is set based on pre-determined criteria depending on the crime. The criteria can include previous convictions, the likelihood of appearance, and the severity of the crime.
If the defendant remains uncharged, the court must release them on their own recognizance by the 33rd day following their initial arrest. In some cases where “good cause” is shown by the state, the court may extend this deadline to 40 days after the arrest.
If you can't afford bail, you will remain in jail until your court date, which can range from weeks for minor offenses to months or even years for serious charges. The timeline largely depends on the complexity of the case, the court's schedule, and whether there are any delays in the legal process.
If a defendant cannot afford bail, then at the arraignment or any hearing while still incarcerated the defendant can request a bail reduction or release without bail. That must be supported with evidence that the defendant is unlikely to reoffend or to flee.
Yes, you can bail yourself out of jail if you have the financial resources to cover the bail amount set by the court.
The defendant can post their own bail or ask a family member or friend to post it. If the defendant uses a bond company, the company may require the defendant to have a co-signer (someone who will help the company find the defendant should they fail to appear).
Consequences of Missing a Bond Payment Revocation of Bail: The bail bondsman may revoke the bond, leading to immediate arrest and incarceration. Legal Action: The bondsman may take legal action against you to recover the owed amount.
If the defendant remains uncharged, the court must release them on their own recognizance by the 33rd day following their initial arrest. In some cases where “good cause” is shown by the state, the court may extend this deadline to 40 days after the arrest.
Understanding Bail and Detention Periods Even so, California law prohibits judges from denying bail because you can't afford it. Therefore, judges may release you on your “own recognizance,” which means you take responsibility for attending your trial dates without paying bail.