How Is Bail Determined?

After an individual has been arrested or charged with a crime, the judge can set bail to release the accused from custody while awaiting trial. The bail amount depends on several factors, including criminal history and flight risk. Woodward Bonding Company provides bail bonds in Summer County, TN, to help you or your loved one pay the imposed bail and secure a temporary release. Here are some of the factors that help determine bail:

1. Crime Severity

To determine bail eligibility and amount, a judge will assess the seriousness of the alleged crime. A person facing a minor offense for vandalism may be assigned a lower bail amount than someone facing a murder charge. In some criminal cases, the judge can deny bail if the alleged crime is too serious. Our bail bonds at Woodward Bonding Company can help you pay the set bail amount if you currently don’t have the funds to secure your release.

2. Criminal History

Some individuals may have a history of arrests or convictions, which can work against them when setting bail. If you have a previous record of similar crimes or skipping bail, your bail amount can be set higher to discourage you from repeating the same crime or fleeing. A person with a clean criminal history may obtain bail more easily and be required to pay less. Regardless of your criminal history, if your bail is posted, Woodward Bonding can help you pay it.

3. Flight Risk

If the judge deems you a flight risk, you may be required to pay a higher bail amount or even have it denied. A flight risk refers to a high probability that an accused person will flee and not attend trial. This can be considered if the person has no ties to the community or has previously fled in similar situations. Lacking a job, family, and property in the area can also suggest a flight risk.

4. Danger to the Public

In cases where the alleged crime poses a threat to the community, the judge may set a higher bail amount. This often happens in cases where a person is facing a violent crime charge or has a history of violence. The court is concerned with maintaining public safety and protecting potential victims. In such situations, the judge may deny bail as a precautionary measure until the trial happens. If the judge doesn’t see you as a danger to the public, you may be granted bail. Bail bonds are available to help you pay the required amount and await trial as you go about your daily activities.

5. Financial Ability

When setting bail, the judge may consider your income, assets, and expenses. If they determine you can easily afford the bail, they may charge a higher amount. This is done to deter you from repeating the same offense. Your bail will likely depend on a combination of factors, including the seriousness of the crime and criminal history.

Consider Woodward Bonding’s Bail Bonds Service

Woodward Bonding Company can facilitate the bail and release process following a criminal charge. We are here to help you or your loved one get a temporary release and await trial from the outside. Our bail bonds service is fast, professional, and confidential, making paying the set bail amount easier. Contact us today to discuss our bail bond options.