Most people know that you can pay cash or use a bail bondsman to get someone released from jail, but there are actually several other types of bonds. While cash and using a bail bondsman are the most common, other types may be available. Depending on the situation and the state, you may have options.
Surety Bonds
Surety Bonds are the most well-known and used type of bond. This is where you pay a bail bondsman a fee of 10% of the total bond amount and they cover the rest and assure the court that the defendant will return to court.
Cash Bonds
Cash Bonds are the simplest type of bond, but not everyone can afford this option. In this type of bond, the defendant pays the full amount of the bond with their own money. Usually, you will have to pay cash for this type of bond, but certain facilities may allow for the use of a debit or credit card.
Federal Bonds
Federal Bonds are usually the only option that is available for someone charged with a federal crime. In this situation, the defendant negotiates directly with the federal government. No bail bondsmen are involved in this process. The federal government will usually require cash or property as collateral in this situation.
Citation Release
A Citation Release is what is issued to someone who is being charged with a minor crime. If you get a traffic ticket, you will most likely be given a citation release where the officer is releasing you on your own recognizance with a summons to appear in court to pay a fee or penalty. This is a common situation where a person is not arrested for the crime they are being charged with.
Property Bond
A Property Bond is where the defendant negotiates their release by using their personal property as collateral for the bond. This bond could take several weeks to be processed however as it the value of the property has be assessed before a judge will make a decision. In addition to this, several states do not allow property bonds, and those that do may not allow them in certain situations.
