Determining the Bail Amount in Michigan A bail hearing usually – but not always – occurs within 48 hours of a defendant being charged. When deciding bail, a judge or magistrate will consider factors like: The seriousness and circumstances of the allegations. The defendant's criminal history and risk of reoffending.
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.
If the felonies on your record have been adjudicated by a court, in other words, not mere arrests where the cases have been dropped or dismissed by the prosecutors, then you will be prevented from qualifying for a license as a bail bond agent.
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.
APPLYING FOR A BAIL BOND LICENSE Eligibility for a license is limited to persons who have not previously been convicted of, or pled guilty or nolo contendere to, any felony, or to a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude or dishonesty.
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.
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.
When arrested, the court sets a bail amount based on the crime's severity, your criminal history, and your flight risk. If you can't afford bail, you stay in jail until your court date. The duration of jail time varies.
The court considers the seriousness of the crime, potential penalty, and criminal history in determining the bond length. If the individual has a history of violating the law, the bond length could extend beyond the usual 90 days.