Failing to post bond has several consequences: Extended Jail Time: You remain in custody until your court date, ranging from weeks to months. Court Appearances: Regular court appearances are required.
While it may seem surprising, in most cases the police do not need a warrant arrest you. It all comes down to probable cause — if the police have probable cause to believe that you have committed a crime, they can arrest you without going to a judge for a warrant first.
For instance, a California judge might post bail at $50,000, letting the defendant secure their release for just $5,000. However, judges may not grant bail in some situations. When this happens, it can result in a “no bond” situation.
Any felony where the court finds, with clear and convincing evidence, that the person violated a major condition of release while on bail. Domestic violence offenses (both felony and misdemeanor), if the court believes the person poses a serious danger to the alleged victim.
Background Check and Disqualifications A clean background is crucial. You cannot have any felony convictions. If you have a felony on your record, you are automatically disqualified from becoming a bail bonds agent.
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.
The amount of time you stay in jail depends on the court system. Usually, you'll be kept there until your trial, which is called “pretrial detention.” However, how quickly your trial happens can vary a lot. Sometimes, it's quick, but other times, it can take weeks or even years.
No - if you signed the bond it doesn't matter whether you have a job or not - or whether the bondsman asked you if you did. You are liable as surety on the bond - having a job or not has nothing to do with your liability. Sorry.
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.
Failing to post bond has several consequences: Extended Jail Time: You remain in custody until your court date, ranging from weeks to months. Court Appearances: Regular court appearances are required. Impact on Employment and Family: Prolonged jail time can lead to job loss and financial strain.