Bail and Bond Lawyer in West Palm Beach
When you were arrested, your first thought might have been on the penalties that come with a guilty verdict. Now, though, you have realized that you have a more pressing concern. You have to come up with the money to bond out of jail. Otherwise, you will remain incarcerated while awaiting trial. That is a horrible thought, especially if you’re not guilty of what you’re charged with.
Instead of trying to navigate the system yourself, contact our West Palm Beach bail and bond lawyer. With more than 34 years of experience, Ronald S. Chapman has represented numerous clients at bond hearings. Reach out today to discuss your situation.
Factors That Go Into Setting Bond
The prosecution will likely attempt to have the judge set the highest bond possible. However, your bail and bond attorney in West Palm Beach will advocate for reasonable bail. Ultimately, the judge will have the final say and will consider factors that include:
- The seriousness of the charge
- Your criminal record
- Your community ties
- The likelihood that you will return to court
- Public safety
The prosecution might make exaggerated claims during this process, so make sure you have a lawyer by your side to protect your rights.
The First Appearance Hearing
You will attend a First Appearance hearing in front of a judge within 24 hours of being arrested. The judge will have a general idea of the amount based on the state’s bail schedule. However, this amount is rarely set in stone. Instead, expect the prosecutor to make a case for a higher bond. Your attorney will counter the argument with evidence that shows why you deserve a fair and reasonable bond.
Your West Palm Beach bail and bond lawyer will need to consider your situation to determine how to approach the bond hearing. If you have a clean criminal record, your lawyer can use that to persuade the judge for a lower bond. Additionally, ties to the community are helpful when arguing for a reduced bond.
The court will also consider your financial situation before setting the bond. While a $10,000 bond might be reasonable for a millionaire, it will be unsurmountable to someone who makes $20,000 a year. With so many factors to consider, it is important to have legal representation at your hearing.
Conditions of Your Release
Your West Palm Beach bail and bond lawyer can also advocate for your release on a bond without additional conditions. For instance, the prosecutor might request restrictive conditions such as regular check-ins with a court official, drug and alcohol tests, driving restrictions, and an ankle monitoring device.
Because of the restrictive nature of these conditions, you will want an attorney by your side at the hearing. Your lawyer will strive to minimize the impact of your release so that you can enjoy your freedom leading up to trial.
Paying The Bond
You have two options for securing your release on bail and bond. First, you can pay the full bail amount the judge sets during your hearing. However, if you cannot afford that, you can pay 10 percent to a bail bond agent. For instance, if the judge sets your bail at $20,000, you’ll pay a bondsman $2,000. Also, if you violate the conditions of your release and your bond is revoked, you may have to pay the total amount to the bail bond agent.
Who Can Pay Your Bail?
If you cannot pay the bail amount, a third party can arrange it for you. The third-party, such as a family member, can contact a bail bond agent to secure the funds on your behalf. The individual might arrange a signature bond, but collateral is often required. If you skip bail, the bail bondsman can then seize the collateral. If you have any questions about how the process works, contact a bail and bond attorney in West Palm Beach.