Getting arrested for drunk driving can be a daunting experience, leaving you in a state of confusion and worry about what comes next. One of the biggest concerns is often the process of securing a bail bond to ensure your temporary release from custody. This blog aims to shed light on this crucial aspect, guiding you through the process of obtaining a DUI bail bond in Indiana. Here, you will learn about bail bond prices, understanding bail bond agreements, and utilizing collateral for bail bonds.
Moreover, we will delve into the repercussions of failing to appear in court after being released on a drunk driving charge. This comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for those seeking bail bond services, and anyone wanting to understand the responsibilities that come with involving a bail bondsman.
Understanding DUI Bail Bonds
Before we dive into the specifics of securing a DUI bail bond, it’s essential to understand what bail bonds are and how they work. A bail bond is a legal contract between the defendant (the individual charged with a crime) and the court that guarantees their appearance in court at the specified date and time. The amount of money required for a bail bond is usually set by the court and can vary based on the severity of the crime and the defendant’s criminal history.
Before a defendant can be released on bond, they must be booked and processed into the jail database. However, the law requires an individual to be sober and of sound mind to do this. So, you cannot obtain a DUI bail bond until the arrested person is deemed sober by the jail staff. This usually takes about 8 to 10 hours depending on the extent of intoxication and additional variables. The bail bond company cannot post their bond until they have been booked in the jail. Friends and families waiting to bond out their loved one must be patient and wait 8 hours from the time of arrest to start the bail bond process.
Bail Bond Services for Drunk Driving Arrests
When faced with a drunk driving charge, securing a bail bond can be your ticket out of jail until your court date. However, posting bail requires paying a certain percentage of the total bond amount to a bail bondsman (also known as a bail bond agent). In Indiana, this percentage is typically 10% to 15% of the total bond amount. For example, if your bail is set at $10,000, you would have to pay anywhere from $1,000 – $1,500, plus any additional fees, to the bail bondsman to secure your release. This fee is non-refundable, even if charges are dropped or dismissed.
Bail Bond Agreements
When you work with a bail bondsman, you will be required to sign a contract known as a bail bond agreement. This document outlines the terms and conditions of your release, including your obligation to appear in court on the specified date, maintain contact with the bail bond agent, and avoid any further legal trouble. It also states that if you fail to fulfill these obligations, the court can revoke your bail bond, and you will be required to pay the full bond amount. It’s crucial to read and understand this agreement before signing it, as it is a legally binding contractual document.
Using Collateral for a Bail Bond
In some cases, individuals may not have enough cash on hand to cover the cost of a bail bond. In these situations, they can use collateral (such as property, stocks, bonds, or valuable assets like cars and boats) to secure the bond. It’s important to note that if you use collateral, it will be returned once your case is resolved. However, if you fail to appear in court as required, your collateral may be seized by the bail bondsman as payment for the full bond amount.
Consequences of Failing to Appear for Court
When you are released on bond, it is your responsibility to appear in court as scheduled. Failure to do so can result in severe consequences, including additional charges and the revocation of your bail bond. This means that you will be sent back to jail until your court date, and the full amount of your bail may need to be paid. Additionally, if you used collateral to secure your bond, it will be seized by the bondsman.
Conclusion
Securing a DUI bail bond in Indiana is an essential step in the legal process after being arrested for drunk driving. Understanding how bail bonds work, the costs involved, and your responsibilities as a defendant can help make the process less daunting. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your bail bondsman and fulfill your obligations to avoid any further legal consequences.
Remember, always seek professional legal advice if you have any questions or concerns about the bail bond process. Contact Woods Bail Bonds at 317-876-9600 for 24 hour bail bond services in Indianapolis, Indiana you can trust. We also offer prearranged bail bond service for arrest warrants and probation violations.
Related Posts:
What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Bail Bondsman for a DUI Arrest
How to Post Bail in Johnson County Indiana After a DUI Arrest
How to Get Your Friend Out of Jail After a DUI Arrest in Marion County
