It can be unnerving to know your loved one is rotting in a jail cell, waiting for a trial date to be held months or even years into the future. If affordability is stopping you from paying bail for a sibling, child, significant other, or other loved one, then read on for tips to affordably save your beloved from the negative experience of sitting in jail until their case is heard.

Don’t Be Deceived by First Appearances

Understand that the initial court appearance is not a guarantee that the accused will be released. This court date is for setting a trial date and determining bond. If your friend is not released back into the community, then they will remain in jail until a monetary deposit is surrendered to the court. The judge will determine this amount, and the defendant or someone acting on their behalf will need to pay it to release the accused from jail. Be wary of this process and know what the bond amount is.

You Have Affordable Bond Options

If you want to post bond for a loved one but can’t pay the full amount, seek out a reputable bail bondsman in your state. They will post bond for your loved one with a small down payment. You will not have any further financial obligation as long as your loved one appears at trial. The court will refund the bond to the payee upon the defendant’s appearance.

Encourage Your Loved One to Appear at Trial

Be aware that the bondsman can recover the bond from you if your loved one fails to appear at trial. Additionally, the bondsman might be entitled to locate the defendant and turn the accused over to the court. Urge your loved one to appear at their trial date in a timely fashion to avoid negative outcomes and financial losses.

Partnering with a reliable bondsman is a wonderful way to spare your loved one from excessive jail time without breaking the bank. Adhere to these tips for how to bail someone out of jail , and enjoy peace of mind for yourself and those you cherish.