Unsecured bail: the defendant is released after agreeing to be financially liable for a fixed amount for failing to appear in court or violating bail conditions. Nominal bail: the defendant is released after a 3rd party posts a small sum ($1.00)
Defendants out on bond are often required to remain within a certain geographic area, usually within the state or county where the case is being prosecuted. Travel outside of this area is typically prohibited unless explicitly permitted by the court.
Collateral Requirements For the bail bond process to be successful with a secured bail bond, the defendant is required to provide collateral to secure their release. For an unsecured bond, no collateral is required, and the defendant is released based on their promise to show up for all court appearances.
After an arrest in Pennsylvania, a criminal defendant is taken before a Magisterial District Judge (MDJ) who sets the bail amount. If the defendant pays the bail amount or uses a bail bond service, he or she will be released from jail while awaiting further developments in the case.
Rule 526 - Conditions of Bail Bond (A) In every case in which a defendant is released on bail, the conditions of the bail bond shall be that the defendant will: (1) appear at all times required until full and final disposition of the case; (2) obey all further orders of the bail authority; (3) give written notice to ...
You may be eligible for an unsecured bond if you committed a minor crime. In addition, a court may be more inclined to offer you the option of an unsecured bond if you have no criminal history. If you accept an unsecured bond, it is in your best interest to comply with its terms.