When someone is arrested and charged with a crime, they are typically given the opportunity to post bail. Bail is a sum of money that acts as collateral; if the defendant fails to appear for their court date, they forfeit the bail and may be subject to additional charges. For many defendants, posting bail is simply not possible. Continue below to learn more about this American experience, plus what you can do if you cannot afford to post bail for yourself when facing an arrest warrant.

Less Americans Are Posting Bail
According to a study by the American Civil Liberties Union, close to half a million jail inmates are unable to post bail, meaning they must remain in jail until their trial. This can have a devastating effect on their ability to mount a defense, as they often have limited access to resources and legal counsel while in jail. In some cases, defendants may be released on their own recognizance, meaning they do not have to post bail but must still appear for their court date. However, this is typically only granted to those deemed low-risk or who have strong ties to the community. As a result, many defendants remain incarcerated simply because they cannot afford to post bail.
Is the Bail System Fair?
While some people view bail as a way to keep dangerous criminals off the streets, others believe that it unfairly punishes people who have not been convicted of a crime. Bail can also be cost-prohibitive for some defendants, preventing them from being able to post bail and forcing them to remain in jail until their case is resolved. This can result in job loss, family instability, and other negative consequences. As a result, there is much debate surrounding the use of bail and whether or not it is an effective tool for ensuring public safety.
Bail Bondsmen Fees
If you are arrested, you may be wondering whether or not you should contact a bail bondsman. The answer depends on your individual situation. If you have the money to post bail yourself, then you may not need to use a bail bondsman. However, if you do not have the money to post bail, a bail bondsman can help. A bail bondsman is someone who posts bail on your behalf in exchange for a fee. The fee is typically between 10% and 15% of the amount of bail. For example, if the bail is set at $1000, the bail bondsman will charge you anywhere from $100 to $150. If you decide to use a bail bondsman, make sure to choose one that is reputable and has experience.
Are you ready to learn more about bail bond options in Indiana? Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for speedy and secure bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate or information, anytime.
Related Posts:
How Much Does a Felony Bail Bond Cost in Indiana?
Your Options for Covering the Cost of a Bail Bond
Do All Bail Bondsman Cost the Same?