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).
The bail bond agent will need you to sign some paperwork in order for you to secure their services. This usually means paying an amount to the agent, usually a percentage of the total bail amount, and signing off on any collateral for the bond.
Bailing someone out of jail who has a history of untrustworthy behavior can create headaches. You're essentially agreeing to put up 10 percent of a bail bond that could be tens of thousands — or even hundreds of thousands — of dollars. If they fail to show, then you went to all that extra trouble for nothing.
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.
The amount of bail required depends on the severity of the crime, as well as enhancements such as using a firearm during the alleged crime, having a prison prior within the last ten years and prior sex offenses when the crime at issue is another sex offense. Bail also varies by county.
A judge is guided in setting bail by considering the public's safety if an individual is released on bail. Defendant's threats to a witness, for example, may be considered on this issue.
Judges determine bail and exercise discretion in determining the appropriate bail. They consider the accused's rights and the community's safety. This decision directly impacts the accused's ability to prepare for his/her defense and navigate the legal system from a position of freedom.
Factors considered include the seriousness of the charges, the defendant's criminal history, ties to the community, and their financial situation. Pretrial Services Report – The judge may also review a report that the pretrial services agency prepares.