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When a person is accused of a crime, bail is set to guarantee the individual’s appearance in court. This is a form of insurance that often requires bondsman services, because most bail amounts are thousands or even millions of dollars. If a loved one was recently arrested, learn what factors influence these amounts so you can make arrangements with your local bondsman, if necessary.

What Factors Influence Bail Amount?

1. Crime Severity

The more serious the criminal offense is, the higher the bail amount will be, especially if there is ample evidence. Felonies such as kidnapping, assault, and murder always call for higher settings than misdemeanors such as public intoxication, minor acts of vandalism, and driving with a suspended license. 

2. Criminal History

bailA defendant’s criminal history increases or decreases bail amounts. If the individual has no prior record, committed a minor offense or misdemeanor, and is not currently under probation, expect a lower number from the judge. Individuals with serious criminal histories do not enjoy this perk. If the defendant has an outstanding warrant in another jurisdiction, the judge may deny bail completely. 

3. Flight Risk

If the court believes the defendant is a flight risk because they’re accused of a serious crime, the judge will set a higher amount to prevent the defendant from fleeing the state or country before the hearing. The amount may be even higher if the individual has family in other countries or skipped bail in the past.

4. Public Safety

Any defendant who is considered a threat to public safety will either receive an extraordinarily high bail amount or get denied altogether to prevent further harm and destruction. Repeat offenders with a history of violent behavior are most likely to be denied and must wait in jail until the hearing.

5. Community Ties

Ties to the community also help determine the bail amount. For instance, if a defendant has previously volunteered with charitable organizations, helped out with their child’s school, and is otherwise known in their community, the judge will likely be more lenient, assuming the charge isn’t severe and there is no prior criminal history.
 

If you or a family member needs help posting bail in Cherokee County, GA, contact Godfrey Bonding. The oldest company of its kind in the county, this family-run business features the compassionate, knowledgeable agents you need to expedite the posting process. They accept cash, check, and all major credit cards to make payment as convenient as possible. Call (770) 479-5230 today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about city courts online.

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