A bail hearing is an arrestee’s first court appearance, where the judge sets the bail following a standardized schedule. This legal document establishes standard practices to ensure that the bail set is feasible for the defendant. Based on individual circumstances, judges can modify this amount or waive cash bail and grant release on the basis of “Own Recognizance” (O.R.)
The Law on Bail
According to the Eighth Amendment of the US Constitution, the bail amount should be affordable so as to not inflict pretrial punishment. Furthermore, it should allow the unhampered preparation of a defense. It is important to know that an attorney is not mandatory to arrange for bail. One has the freedom to post bail personally or use the services of a bail bondsman. Moreover, loved ones such as friends and relatives can also do either of those on their behalf.
Factors Considered
While deciding the bail amount and conditions, the judge examines factors such as the seriousness of the alleged crime, prior criminal history, close ties to the local community, and employment status. Regardless of the bail hearing outcome, one may access affordable bail bonds in Ventura County to ensure a quick bail.
- Bail bondsmen charge only 10-15% of the bail amount for their service. It includes collecting the rest of the amount, fast-tracking the bail application, and ensuring speedy release with minimum paperwork.
- They have strong ties with local law enforcement and detention center officials to ensure complete confidentiality and zero hassle. Moreover, they can guide clients who wish to initiate a formal bail appeal; given that unschedule bail is rampant in many courts.
- During the appeal; the previous hearing records are review and the bail schedule is closely consulting to revise the bail to a justifiable; fair amount.
Bail Schedules
Bail schedules available at most police stations list out bail amounts and conditions for general crimes. Therefore, an arrestee can readily obtain release after they have been booked. They can only do so after posting the amount set by the jailhouse schedule, which can vary significantly depending on residency, the nature of the crime, and locality.
- This way, in most parts of California, defendants can post bail with the police prior to any court appearance.
- Offenses are of two main types. Usually, the amount set for felonies is eight to ten times the amount required for misdemeanors. Depending on the seriousness of the alleged incident, the bail may seem significantly expensive for a majority of middle-class families.
- Most importantly, the bail set using this schedule is fix and cannot be appealed. Defendants believing that they should be charge less should appear before a judge, as the police will not accept any amount not outlined in the schedule.
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However, Ventura County has the alternative of a duty judge. They are available almost 24/7 to fix bail over a call or in-person. A bail is a fit option for those who want to avoid court before trial to prevent any publicity or complications. No matter how high the bail is set, a trusted bondsman is always available to guide and support you through the hectic process. That way, a bail schedule won’t impact your daily schedule, as you will be out in no time.