If you’ve been arrested, making bail can help you return to the comfort of your own home quickly. There are a variety of factors courts use to set bail and learning more about them may help you reduce the amount you have to pay. Find out more about how the process works with this helpful guide.

A Guide to Reducing Bail

How Do Courts Determine the Amount?

The nature of the crime is a determining factor when setting bail. If the court deems you a threat or violent, they are likely to deny any request to reduce bail. If your lawyer can make a case that you are not a threat, your odds may improve.

Your record is another factor in the judge’s decision. If this is your first offense, the court might be willing to make an adjustment. Other key points include family ties and job security. Proving that you have people to watch out for you and that you have little incentive to skip town may also help your case.

Support Your claims

Evidence like pay stubs, W-2s, and other tax forms can prove that you’ve been employed for several years. These files will demonstrate that you are a reliable and trustworthy person.

Property records and utility bills are other documents that will reveal how long you’ve been living in your community. If necessary, ask family members or coworkers to testify on your behalf.

Determine What’s Affordable

Perform a quick review of your monthly income as well as any savings and investments. Look into the possibility of securing a bail bond, which requires you to pay only a percentage of the total amount.

Knowing what you can afford could make it easier to contest the initial bail and prove why it’s unreasonable. Work with your attorney to come up with a lower amount and print out recent bank statements to support your claims.

If you or a loved one is having trouble making bail, reach out to Godfrey Bonding in Canton, GA. This family-owned bail bonding company works with state and federal courts and has been serving the area for more than 35 years. These experts are available 24/7 and offer an assortment of bonds to suit your needs. For a full list of services, visit the website. Call (770) 479-5230 to schedule a consultation.